DOMO Modern Japanese @ Fairmont Hotel - Refined Japanese Cuisine with a Contemporary Twist

DOMO Modern Japanese may be just over a year old, but it’s already making its mark on Singapore’s dining scene with its contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Named after the Japanese expression “Domo Arigatou” (“thank you”), the restaurant combines Japanese techniques with subtle European influences in a refined yet approachable setting.

Leading the kitchen is Chef Rose Ang, whose 29 years of culinary experience include working with Nobu Hospitality across Europe. Her global experience is reflected throughout the menu, where Japanese flavours are thoughtfully complemented by European touches, resulting in dishes that are balanced, elegant and never overcomplicated.

Salmon Tataki 4/5

We started with the Salmon Tataki ($22), lightly seared and served with Dijon miso sauce and a balsamic glaze. The gentle smokiness from the aburi edges complements the rich salmon beautifully. At the same time, the Dijon miso adds a savoury depth before the balsamic cuts through with just enough acidity to keep every bite balanced. It’s a great introduction to Chef Rose’s signature approach of marrying Japanese techniques with European influences.

Chawanmushi 3.8/5

The Chawanmushi ($18) arrives generously filled with prawn, crab meat and ikura. Seafood lovers will appreciate its natural sweetness, though diners more sensitive to stronger seafood flavours may find it slightly fish-forward. The silky steamed egg provides a comforting base that lets the fresh seafood shine.

Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing 5/5

Instead of the usual sashimi platter, we opted for the Sashimi Salad with Nashi Pear Dressing ($24), and it turned out to be one of our favourite dishes. The combination of fresh sashimi, crisp greens and crunchy nashi pear created a refreshing contrast of textures, while the dressing was light and well-balanced without being overly sweet.

Sashimi Taco 5/5

The Sashimi Taco ($18 for 2 pieces) comes in different variations, and we tried both the salmon and tuna versions. The Salmon Taco, paired with tomato shiso salsa, was pleasant and approachable, though the flavours leaned toward the milder side. We thought a spicy variation would give it a little more excitement.

Tuna Taco 5/5

The Tuna version, on the other hand, was outstanding. The combination of tuna, avocado and feta created a richer and more balanced flavour profile, making this our preferred choice between the two.

Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice 4.8/5

For mains, we had the Snow Crab & Tobiko Baked Rice ($48), which was generously topped with sweet snow crab, while the rice carried a subtle ginger fragrance that complemented the seafood without overpowering it. Comforting, satisfying and perfect for sharing, this is a dish we’d happily order again.

Domo Sour 4/5

The drinks menu offers a surprisingly good selection at reasonable prices. We tried the Domo Sour ($16), a whisky-based cocktail with bitters and yuzu. Smooth, citrusy and refreshing, it paired well with the seafood dishes throughout the meal.

Sticky Ginger Date Pudding 5/5

Chef Rose recommended her signature Sticky Ginger Date Pudding ($16), served with soy toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream. Replacing salt with soy sauce was an interesting touch, adding subtle savouriness to the dessert. The pudding itself reminded us of a Chinese red date and ginger steamed cake, while the vanilla ice cream made it richer and more indulgent.

Chilled Mango Gazpacho 4/5

For something lighter, we also tried the Chilled Mango Gazpacho with Yuzu Shiso Pomelo ($22). Think of it as a refined take on the classic Hong Kong mango pomelo dessert, elevated with fragrant shiso and yuzu. Refreshing and not overly sweet, it was a lovely way to end the meal.

Beyond the food, we were pleasantly surprised by the restaurant’s spacious layout. DOMO features four private dining rooms with minimum spend starting at just $80 per person, making it a great option for celebrations, corporate gatherings, or intimate dinners. Combined with its elegant ambience and thoughtfully curated menu, DOMO delivers a dining experience that feels polished yet welcoming.

Beyond the signature dishes we tried, DOMO offers an extensive à la carte menu featuring sashimi, sushi, robata-grilled seafood and meats, noodles and rice, giving diners plenty of reasons to return and explore more of the menu. For those seeking a more curated experience, Chef Rose also offers a Signature Tasting Menu from $88++, with bespoke omakase experiences starting at $300++.

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


DOMO
Fairmont Singapore
252 North Bridge Road
#03-00
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 89108835
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

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

Tai Cheong Bakery @ Holland Village - First Overseas Dine-In Concept

After a year of selling their famous Hong Kong egg tart at a food kiosk in Takasimaya, Tai Cheong Bakery has finally decided to open its first overseas dine-in concept at Holland Village, Singapore. Besides their popular egg tart, bakes and cakes, the 42 seater cafe also offers Hong Kong "Cha Chaan Teng" dishes.

Three Egg Macaroni Soup with Luncheon Meat 4.2/5

A comforting and hearty offering on the menu is the Three Egg Macaroni Soup with Luncheon Meat ($8.50). Yes you did not hear me wrong, there is a total of three sunnyside up eggs. What stood out is the rich tomato and chicken broth. This is goodness in a bowl and probably you can only have it here at Tai Cheong Bakery for the moment.

Scrambled Egg Toast Stack with Chicken Chop 4/5

Getting bored with waffle and chicken? How about having a change with the Scrambled Egg Toast Stack with Chicken Chop ($9.50). This is cheaper than your waffle and chicken. What is more important, it tasted as good or even better. The creamy three-egg scramble paired excellent with the buttered toasted. Not forgetting the juicy chip chop underneath that is resting on a bed of mushroom sauce.

French Toast 3.5/5

A quintessential Hong Kong cafe snack is the Homemade French Toast with Maple Syrup or Dulce De Leche ($6.50). Instead of deep fried, the toast coated in an egg wash with milk is pan fried instead. It is then topped with a slab of salted butter. This resulted in a fluffy interior with a contrasting crispy exterior. I would recommend not to spend too long taking photo or it can turn soaky pretty fast.

Three Coloured Silky Eggs with Rice 4.2/5

Making an impressive entrance is the Three Coloured Silky Eggs with Rice ($9.90). This is like the Hong Kong version of omurice. The steamed rice is covered with a three-egg omelette, kailan and a choice of two meats. I had the roasted pork and crispy pork belly. Dinner has a choice of either roasted pork and prawn or roasted pork and beef too. This is a dish which I will go back for.

Beef Brisket Curry Rice 3/5

Another rice dish on the menu is the Beef Brisket Curry Rice ($10.90). The curry is the sweet type with a creamy consistency, coming from the peanut sauce. It also comes with a dash of sesame oil for a aromatic finishing. The beef brisket was also cooked to a soft, fork tender texture. There is also an option of chicken if you don't eat beef.

Bolo Bun 3.5/5

A visit to Tai Cheong is not complete without trying out their signature bakes. Customers can expect to look forward to treats such as the Bolo Bun ($2.20), Coconut Tart ($2.50) and famous Egg Tart ($1.90). The unique butter cookie-like crust and smooth egg custard is what make the egg tart legendary.

Egg Tart 4.5/5, Coconut Tart 4/5, Durian & Cheese Tart 3.8/5

A special creation only available at Holland Village outlet is the Durian & Cheese Tart ($3.60). This exclusive tart is made using premium D24  durian plup and cream cheese encased in their famed crust. The creation can be quite heavy if you are not into the rich and heavy custard, and of course durian.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tai Cheong Bakery
31 Lorong Liput
Singapore 277742
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Pastries & Drinks
Mon-Fri: 10am - 10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 9am - 10pm
Mains
Daily: 11am - 230pm, 530pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to Lorong Liput. Walk towards to the junction of Lorong Liput and Lorong Mambong. Turn left onto Lorong Luput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

CATO @ South Bridge Road - Modern Asian Cuisine with a Holistic Range of Craft Beers and Spirits

CATO is the newest restaurant and bar that has recently become the new resident of the historical building where the first OCBC Bank was located. CATO offers modern Asian cuisine, with a holistic range of over 60 small batched craft beers and spirits from around the world.

Crispy Squid 4/5

Our dinner at Cato started with some small plates. We started with the popular Crispy Squid ($12) which comes in a sweet and salty Thai style glaze. The delectable nip is very addictive, goes well with the beers and spirits.

Prawn and Spinach Wanton 3/5

The Prawn and Spinach Wanton ($10) looks like blooming flower on the plate. The golden baked wanton parcels are stuffed with prawns, spinach and mushrooms. While the crackling wanton skin is outstanding, the stuffing did not manage to excite my taste buds. In addition, the wanton parcel is quite hard to handle and eat.

KFC Korean Fried Chicken 4/5

With the number of Korean restaurants opening around Singapore selling the popular fried chicken, the rendition of the KFC Korean Fried Chicken ($16) at Cato is as good or even better than a few places. It also comes with a sweet and mildly spicy gochujang dipping.

Mentaiko Mac & Cheese 3.5/5

My high expectation of the Mentaiko Mac & Cheese ($15) turned disappointment as I could not traced any mentaiko in the multi layers of flavours. Saying so the Southern comfort is quite enjoyable with the creamy cheese, aburi salmon cubes and tteok (korean rice cake).

Mini Braised Beef Sandwiches 3/5

The flavoursome beef is braised in black bean sauce and served in between bread. The Mini Braised Beef Sandwiches ($16) will comfort the hungry stomach, for a substantial bite.

Sizzling Hotplate Octopus 4.2/5

One of my favourite small plates is the Sizzling Hotplate Octopus ($18). The flavour is straight forward and robust amid the sun dried tomatoes and roasted new potatoes. The grilled octopus was also cooked to a nice tender texture.

Twice Cooked Iberico Pork Cheek 4/5

Moving on the big plates, the Twice Cooked Iberico Pork Cheek ($30) surprised me with the tender pork cheek slices which have been grilled and steamed, this is hold together by the rice wine mustard sauce.

Bangkok Lobster Risotto 4/5

The Bangkok Lobster Risotto ($32) comes with sous vide lobster, tom yum flavoured risotto, seasoned vegetables and lobster butter. It is a very beautiful dish with rich robust and cheesy flavour. The risotto was also cooked al dente with an enjoyable bite to it. However I probably got myself lost in Bangkok as I was not able to taste any tom yum.

Tea Smoked Chicken with Spicy Japanese Noodles 3.8/5

The Tea Smoked Chicken with Spicy Japanese Noodles ($20) comes with Chinese tea smoked chicken, soba, ghost chilli dressing, pearl tomatoes, garden greens and sweet potato chips. The tender chicken was the highlight, well infused with the tea fragrant. However the soba was kind of bland and all I can taste is the spiciness from the ghost chilli dressing.

Pineapple Pork Curry with Baked Rice 4/5

The Pineapple Pork Curry with Baked Rice ($26) is from the recipe book of Grandma Maureen. The traditional Eurasian pineapple curry comes with slow cooked pork belly and baked rice, served in a pineapple and topped with a melted cheese. The curry was some what new and unique to my taste buds. Initially I thought I tasted salted fish or anchovy in the curry gravy but it is actually belacan after checking with the kitchen.

Seared Barramundi Fillet with Homemade Curry 4.5/5

What blow the house down has to be the Seared Barramundi Fillet with Homemade Curry ($28). The pan seared barramundi is served in a traditional Indian fish curry, grilled okra and eggplants. It even comes with sliced bread to soak up the delicious Indian fish curry. This is like a deconstructed modernise fish head curry. A must try!

Valrhona Chocolate and Pistachio Cake 3/5

There is only one dessert item on the menu and that is the Valrhona Chocolate and Pistachio Cake ($12). The decadent chocolate fondant cake served with a scoop of ice cream and fresh pomegranate. A decent chocolate cake with moist interior but the missing pistachio puzzled me. It also need to consider changing their ice cream supplier.

---

PROMOTION - COMPLIMENTARY TAPAS OF THE DAY

---

For one month period, 18 April 2016 to 18 May 2016. When you walk in to CATO, let the person at the entrance know and quote "CATO Online" to receive a complimentary Tapas of the Day. The promotion is brought to you by the kind folks at CATO.


[CLOSED]
CATO
237 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058786
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 5pm - 12midnight
Sat: 6pm - 1am
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Truly Test Kitchen @ Jun Jie Industrial Building (Macpherson Road)

The two young hawkerpreneurs that have started Truly Curry Rice at Telok Blangah Drive Food Centre has closed their stall and made a bold expansion move, taking over an entire coffee shop inside an industrial building at Kampong Ampat with a rather hip name - Truly Test Kitchen. Located on level seven of the industrial building, Truly Test Kitchen is a concept that consists of Truly Curry Rice, and another 3 other stalls - Truly Western, Mian and Handmade Meatball Porridge.

Hainanese Curry Rice 4/5

I was quite amazed to see the inner rice clean of gravy, after sitting there for quite some time with gravy coated all over. That to me was already a huge plus. The consistency of the curry allows it to just glaze the rice without drowning it. It is flavourful yet not overpowering the other dishes. I highly recommend their braised dishes - Radish, Chap Chye and Bittergourd.

Curry Chicken Noodle 3.5/5

Homely Noodle 3.5/5

From the Mian Stall, we had Homely Noodle and Curry Chicken Noodle. I have never seen such a huge portion for only $3.50. After observing that most customers working in the area will head straight to the rice stall without giving the noodles or porridge stall a chance. The two hawkerpreneurs increased the portion for a value return to counter that. Hence, both noodles and porridge are made extremely hearty to satiate their hunger. Homely Noodle is something that comforts your soul, while the Curry Chicken Noodle sets to fire your energy for the rest of the afternoon.

Homemade Pumpkin Cakes 3.8/5

Their Homemade Pumpkin Cakes are also worth trying. They are slightly differently from the usual. Crispy on the outside soft on the inside, the special sauce and chilli at the side make it extra moreish.

Meatball Porridge 3.8/5

Chunky homemade meatballs and velvety porridge, the liking for their Porridge is unanimous.  Thick and gluey, this hearty porridge is slow cooked for 2 hours to achieve such consistency. Hence, you wouldn't see your porridge turning watery till your last drop. That happens when potato starch was being added to quicken the thickening process. 

Chicken Chop Baked Rice 3.5/5

Chicken Chop 4/5

From Truly Western, their Baked Rice, Chicken Chop and Chicken Waffle ($4.50 each) are their popular dishes. Their baked rice is more towards the Hong Kong style. Perhaps it's the batter, I must say their Chicken Chop is really good, hence be it we had it by itself or as Chicken Chop Baked Rice, both were equally satisfying.  Their pasta, however, pale in comparison.

Pasta 2.8/5

Their Chicken Waffle ($4.50) may excite you as much as it had excited our table. Isn't it interesting to see how hawker food has evolved?  Some may see it in a negative way but such evolution may give people a chance to taste new things that is almost out of their imagination. This particular dish actually made an old couple coming back for it consecutively everyday for weeks!

Chicken Waffle 4/5

Joel and Deniece, former forex traders and colleagues, are the two young people who made it happened, barely after a couple of years after Deniece's dad handed over the hawker stall at Telok Blangah Food Centre to them. They took over the defunct coffeeshop on the 7th storey of the industrial building, spent months to get the entire space up and running, to what you see today. Hungry for success, you can see that in their eyes.

I can't imagine how this place was like back before Joel and Deniece took over, but to see so much energy going on at a level so high up in an industrial building on a Saturday, Truly Test Kitchen has definitely breathed a new lease of life into this place.

Written 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.



[CLOSED]
Truly Test Kitchen
Jun Jie Industrial Building
153 Kampong Ampat
#07-05
Singapore 368326
Nearest MRT: Tai Seng (CC Line), Aljunied (EW Line)

Opening Hours
Mon-Sat: 7am - 2pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Tai Seng MRT station. Take Exit B.Walk down Harper Road. Turn right onto Playfair Road and then left onto Mactaggart Road. Walk to the end of Mactaggart Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the overhead bridge. Walk to bus stop opposite Aljunied MRT station (Stop ID 81081). Take bus number 62. Alight 5 stops later. Walk to Kampong Ampat road. Turn left onto Kampong Ampat road. Continue on Kampong Ampat. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]

Miam Miam @ Westgate

Miam Miam first started in Bugis, which I thought was once of the most ideal spot to test our their concept - modern, European - Japanese fusion. Now with a second outlet at Westgate, Miam Miam seems to have found its way into the heartlanders. Miam Miam @ Westgate has recently launched a executive Lunch menu. It comes with a soup, a main course ( Sandwich, Pasta or Rice), and rounding it up with a choice of coffee or tea.

Cream of Broccoli 2.8/5

We had Cream of Broccoli to start of the evening. It is not too green, hence, it didn't taste too 'raw' to me.

Miam Miam Spaghetti 3/5

Modern Yaki 3/5

For Pasta, we were presented with Miam Miam Spaghetti ($15.80++) and Modern Yaki ($14.80 ++). You can see the Japanese influence in there. The use of seaweed, bonito flakes and shimeiji mushrooms. I like the use of the savoury ingredients which flavors the pasta naturally without the need to drown them in sauce. Honestly, for both pasta, the taste is there. What disappoints me is that both pasta were way under cooked. If not for that, I would have enjoyed both of them very more.

Riz Noir 3.5/5

Riz Au Curry 3/5

For Rice, we had a choice of Riz Noir ($17.80++) and Riz Au Curry ($14.80++). Again for these 2 dishes, the Japanese elements remains strong. I enjoyed the squid ink rice which remains firm to bite and the sweet milky tamago on top, which complements the savoury rice and seafood. The Riz Au Curry is a crowd pleaser with favourite ingredients such as pork frankfurters, broccoli, cheese and egg, combined and baked in homemade Japanese curry.

Teriyaki Chicken 2.8/5

Available also are sandwich offerings such as Teriyaki Chicken ($15.80++) or BLT ($11.80++). I would suggest giving these a miss and opt for either their Pasta or Rice. I mean why sandwiches, when you can try their signature dishes?

Matcha Red Bean Cream Pancake 3.5/5

Ordering 2 executive Lunch sets will get you and your partner a complimentary Matcha Red Bean Cream Pancake ($12.80 ++). Due to its thickness, the pancake can be a bit dry but the cream gels it well with the melt-in-your-mouth jelly. When I bite into coffee flavoured jelly. Explosive is the word! This really give you the best bang for your buck.

Depending on which dish you choose, at $17.90++ per pax, and together with the complimentary dessert can be quite value for your money. Hence, if you happen to be working around here or have some time to spare for a nice lunch, give it a try.

Written 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. 


Miam Miam
Westgate
3 Gateway Drive
#01-21/22
Singapore 608532
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miam.sg
Website: http://miam.sg/
Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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