Showing posts with label Baklava. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Baklava. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

True Cost @ Suntec City - Rooftop Restaurant and Bar Overlooking Suntec City Offering Asian and Modern European Flavours

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True Cost in Suntec City's Sky Garden prides itself on offering diners food and alcohol at low markups. The menu primarily features Asian and Modern European flavours, complemented by an extensive beverage list, which includes house-made cocktails, mocktails, wines, spirits, and beers.

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The rooftop restaurant and bar provide a scenic overlook of Suntec City, with gorgeous natural sunlight pouring in during the day.

For a complimentary entry, visiting between 3pm to 5pm on weekdays and 9pm to 10pm daily is best. Outside these times, a moderate entrance fee of $5 per person for lunch between 12pm and 3pm and $10 per person for dinner between 5pm and 9pm. However, there's a 50% discount on the fees daily from 5pm if you opt for bar seating.

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Watermelon Ceviche 3.8/5

We began with the refreshing Watermelon Ceviche ($9). The combination of tomatoes, feta cheese, pecans, olive oil, and watermelon created a delightful mix of textures and flavours. The fragrant and crunchy pecans were a standout.

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Octopus Carpaccio 2.8/5

Next, we tried the Octopus Carpaccio ($15.95), which was unfortunately less impressive. The sliced octopus, tossed in a bright orange dressing with tahini, sundried tomatoes, and za'atar, was too chewy and tough. At its price point, it felt slightly overpriced.

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BBQ Pork Ribs 4/5

True Cost's BBQ Pork Ribs ($18.50) appeared to be a popular choice among diners. Served alongside grilled corn and kimchi cucumbers, the fall-off-the-bone ribs had a pleasant hint of smokiness. Although the slightly spiced corn was a touch dry, the overall dish was satisfying.

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Crab Linguini 4/5

For our second main dish, we had the Crab Linguine ($22). The al dente linguine was tossed in a rich, savoury, buttery bisque sauce with ample crab meat.

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Baklava Sundae 4.2/5

Dessert was the Greek-inspired Baklava Sundae ($11), which was made with a base of sunflower seed mousse, pistachio ice cream, and cherry syrup drizzled over. We broke into the thin, super flaky pastry and were pleasantly surprised by the balanced sweetness. The layered textures - from the crushed nuts and crisp pastry to the nutty sunflower seed mousse and tangy cherry syrup, were delightful. While a richer pistachio ice cream would have been preferred, it worked good as a sharing dessert to end the meal.

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Reservations to the restaurant can be made at their official website, https://www.truecostsingapore.com/.

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.


True Cost
Suntec City
SkyGarden
#03-302/303
3 Temasek Boulevard
Tel: +65 88940615
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10.30pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, June 11, 2024

27 Mezze Bar and Grill @ Robertson Quay - Singapore's first Contemporary Turkish Restaurant by a Turkish Couple Who Runs a Top-Rated Restaurant in Turkey

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27 Mezze Bar and Grill, located in the cosy enclave of Robertson Quay, is Singapore's first contemporary Turkish restaurant. Opened by a Turkish couple who also runs a top-rated restaurant in Turkey, the kitchen is led by experienced executives and Head Chefs who have honed their skills in some of Istanbul's and overseas finest establishments. The name '27' reflects their passion for food culture, which led to a well-curated menu of 27 dishes showcasing Turkey's rich culinary heritage across its seven regions, all with a contemporary touch. Authentic Anatolian flavours are achieved using herbs and spices sourced directly from Turkey, complemented by selected alcohol and local drinks.

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Mezze Platter 5/5

We began our dinner with an impressive Mezze Platter, one of the best I've experienced. Even common choices like Babagannuş and Hummus were elevated in flavour and texture.

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Babagannuş

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Hummus

The Babagannuş featured a finishing touch of sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for a nutty crunch. The Hummus was enhanced with black currants and pomegranates for sweet contrast and texture pops.

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Girit Ezme

Do try Girit Ezme, made with sharp and salty white "Ezine" cheese (sheep and cow), balanced with creamy "Kaymak" Lor cheese, similar to ricotta, blended with basil, garlic, and pistachio.

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Muhammara

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Fava Tekmil

Both the Fava Tekmil and Muhammara were delectable. The Fava Tekil, made with pureed broad beans, was brilliantly nuanced with aromatic dill and red onion. Equally well thought-out was the Muhammara, which appeared to be a regular roasted red pepper dip but elevated with walnuts for a nutty flavour and textural play.

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Kopoglu

The Kopoglu was also a highlight. It was a tasty mix of fried eggplant and tomato with contrasting creamy and refreshing cold garlic yoghurt.

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(tasting portion) Mucver 5/5

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(tasting portion) Hellim & Sucuk 4.5/5

For appetisers - we had Mücver, zucchini fritters with white "Ezine" cheese, served with creamy salted yoghurt, which was deliciously crispy on the outside and soft inside. The Hellim & Sucuk featured charcoal-grilled cured "Turkish" beef sausage and halloumi cheese, served with Turkish cucumber "Ankara Çubuk" pickle and pita bread, making it a highly flavorful dish ideal for pairing with a drink.

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(tasting portion) Dana Şaşlık 4.5/5

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(tasting portion) Tavuk Şiş 4.8/5

For the mains, they were prepared in a charcoal barbecue way. We tried the sirloin, chicken thigh, hand-minced lamb kebab, and lamb shoulder. The Dana Şaşlık, a 24-hour marinated sirloin, had a very delectable tender texture, a flavour accented with aromatic herbs, and a hint of smokiness from the charred ends. I reckon slightly less salty would be perfect. The Tavuk Şiş, a 24-hour marinated chicken thigh, was equally tender and more spice-forward with a distinct marination.

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Kuzu Tandir 4/5

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Tire Kebap 4.2/5

Between the Kuzu Tandir, a weekend special of seven-hour slow-roasted boneless lamb shoulder, and the Tire Kebap, I preferred the latter for its flavour combination. Tire Kebap is hand-minced lamb meatballs paired with a complementary tomato puree and smoked yogurt, finished with an indulgent dose of beurre noisette. I prefer an even more robust tomato puree. The lamb shoulder would be ideal if you are into a gamier taste.

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Turkish coffee, Baklava

The dessert was simple but still delightful - Turkish coffee was served with a piece of Turkish Delight and Baklava. As my dining companion noted, it transported her back to Turkey, reminiscing about enjoying the same treat while overlooking the coast during her travels.

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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.


27 Mezze Bar and Grill
Village Residence Robertson Quay
30 Robertson Quay
#01-02A
Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 9227 9086
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 5pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 5pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, February 22, 2020

Zorba The Greek Taverna @ River Valley Road - Presents A Classic Hellenic Dining Experience By The Singapore River

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Zorba The Greek Taverna located along the waterfront of Singapore River in Clarke Quay is a modern Greek eatery. The restaurant offers scenic river views from its tranquil location, and a classic Hellenic dining experience with a slew of authentic dishes from appetisers, pristine seafood, meats and desserts. Rooted in Greek heritage and culture, Zorba uses only the freshest of traditional ingredients sourced directly from Greek suppliers. Its interiors are primarily inspired by the charming architecture of the Santorini island, decorated in white and blue hues, which made you feel like as if you're dining in Greece. Perfect for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

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Dips Platter 4/5

We started off the meal with their Dips Platter ($28) which consists of a huge platter selection of dips including 5 homemade dips - the Tzatziki Salad dip, Taramosalata dip, Hummus dip, Tirokafteri dip, and Paprika dip. Served with soft and fluffy pita bread, perfect for pairing with the different flavorous sauces.

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Chef Salad 3.8/5

The Chef Salad ($20) was a refreshing vegetarian dish filled with avocado, cucumber, orange, lettuce, quinoa, red onion, sliced almonds, sundried tomatoes pressed into a patty shape, and dressed in a fragrant balsamic lemon dressing.

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Lamb Kleftiko 4.5/5

Zorba's take on the oldest Greek speciality - the Lamb Kleftiko ($36) is perfect for meat lovers. The traditional dish comprises of the finest New Zealand lamb, marinated in Mediterranean herbs, vegetables, garlic and lemon juice for many hours and slow-roasted till fork-tender. The succulent lamb chunks just fell off the bones readily. Complete with a side of crispy oven-roasted potatoes.

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Garides Saganaki 3.5/5

The Garides Saganaki ($28) showcases a homegrown Greek shrimp recipe which is prepared in two-handled heavy-bottomed frying pan called 'Saganaki'. It features pan-fried jumbo prawns sauteed in olive oil, deglazed with ouzo and spicy tomato, garlic, shallots, and feta cheese. We felt the tomato sauce base lacked the spiciness and robustness in it, but the addition of feta cheese was a brilliant touch and adds a satisfying creamy texture to the sweet tomato sauce.

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Greek Baklava 3.8/5

End the meal on a sweet note with the Greek Baklava ($12) - the dessert is stacked with layers of crispy, flaky pastry made of layers of filo and filled with crunchy nuts, held together with honey syrup. If you're a fan of nuts, you'd definitely love this dish.

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Secret Garden 4.2/5, Popcorn Colada 4/5

Round up the night with some drinks from their bar, Yin which was located just right opposite the restaurant. For something lighter and sweeter, go for the Secret Garden ($21). We loved the concoction of floral gin with elderflower liqueur, chrysanthemum tea, honeycomb syrup, and lemon juice, topped with egg white foam. As for the Popcorn Colada ($21), it boasts a unique combination of popcorn syrup with bourbon, salted caramel sauce, pina colada mix and pineapple juice.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Zorba The Greek Taverna
The Riverhouse
3A River Valley Road
#01-02
Singapore 179020
Tel: +65 85581704
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT Station. Take Exit A. Turn right and down River Valley Road. Turn right onto Tan Tye Place. Walk to the end of the road. Turn left onto Clark Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time bout 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the riverfront. Turn left and walk down the river. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Artichoke @ Middle Road - The Least Authentic Middle Eastern Restaurant

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Nine years and still standing tall is Artichoke in the heart of Singapore's Arts and Heritage district. The restaurant in Middle Road is helmed by chef-owner Bjorn Chen, offering Middle Eastern inspired cuisine, which is the least authentic Middle Eastern restaurant. The funky take of the cuisine draws inspiration from Middle Eastern flavours and ingredients while injecting the element of fun and creativity into the dish.

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Our dinner commences with a couple of small plates. We have the Turkish Eggplant ($12). Hummus & Iraqi Spiced Mushrooms ($14), Sea Asparagus ($12) and Beetroot Borani ($12). My favourite is the Hummus & Iraqi Spiced Mushroom. There is something different about the hummus here. On top of the nutty chickpeas, we got to know from chef Bjorn, he added miso to brighten the flavours, elevating the taste profile.

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Sea Asparagus 3/5

The Sea Asparagus is a new item on the menu. Usually, the ingredient is used as a garnish in Singapore, but it is served as a dish here, just like the way it is eaten in Middle East. As the sea asparagus is grown in salt mash near the seas, it is naturally briny in taste. Hence I would recommend having it together with the labneh and crispy fried buckwheat to tone down the saltiness.

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Crab Toast 4.5/5

The crowd favourite has to be the Crab Toast ($16). On top of the fresh house-baked brioche is blue swimmer crab mixed with Greek yoghurt, mayonnaise, chopped chives, chopped and degorged cucumber. This is complemented by the deep-fried chicken skin and ikura topping. It is the sort of dish that you just need to pick it up with your fingers and pop it into the mouth to get that explosion of flavours.

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Falafel Salad 4/5

Same same but still different is the Falafel Salad ($20). Cooked and chopped vegetables are added to the chickpea blend for a fluffier texture to go along with the butter lettuce dressed in fruity sumac dressing. It is further served with mint, pomegranate, dill, tomato and onion slices.

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Housemade Hashbrown 4.5/5

The Housemade Hashbrown ($14) topped with sour cream, and fresh za'atar (wild thyme in Middle East) is probably the best hashbrown I ever have eaten. It uses Russet potatoes that have been steamed, grated and seasoned with cornflour and salt. It is then baked at low temperature at 150 degrees Celsius for an hour, giving it a soft interior complemented by the crispy exterior.

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Cuttlefish Shawarma 4.2/5

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Green Harissa Prawns 4/5

From the seafood section of the menu, we tried the Cuttlefish Shawarma ($25) and Green Harissa Prawns ($38). The cuttlefish is grilled over the mangal grill, suspended naked over the flame for even heating. It is dressed in a delicious special dressing of chicken fat, lime and soya sauce. As for the Green Harissa Prawns, I find it similar to Thai green curry with huge crunchy prawn.

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Charcoal-Grilled Duck "Shish Taouk" 4.5/5

For the meats, we have the Charcoal-Grilled Duck "Shish Taouk" ($30) and the Steak of The Day. I love the Charcoal-Grilled Duck "Shish Taouk" which has been marinated in yoghurt, onion juice and spices for a minimum of two days and cooked on charcoal grill with olive oil and lemon. The duck breast cubes are tender, juicy, flavoursome and in a way addictive. I can't stop going back for me.

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Steak of the Day 4.2/5

The Steak of The Day is the Australian Black Angus Rump Cap seasoned with salt and grilled over woodfire to medium-rare. It is a prized cut commonly used in South America, especially in Brazil but not in Singapore. Being not a lover for A5 wagyu, I prefer my beef to have that textural bite. Hence the beautifully cooked rump cap is the right cut for me for that satisfying bite.

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Malabi 4/5

Moving to dessert, we started off with the Malabi ($16). Underneath the pile of passionate granita is a silky smooth avocado pudding. In fact, this is their third version, garnished with Thai basil leaves and meringue pieces for an Asian feel to it.

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Baklava Cheesecake 4/5

The Baklava Cheesecake ($22) is soft and fluffy. It has all the original elements of baklava retained in a cheesecake form,

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Date Pudding 5/5

You definitely have to leave some space for the Artichoke's Date Pudding ($16). The plate comes with a date pudding drenched in a pool of smoked mil. It is finished off with coffee jelly, cashew praline, cashew nut brittle, cracked sea salt and cocoa powder. Though messy looking, this is the best date pudding I have eaten. Definitely a mush order here.

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Chicken Urfa Kebab 4.2/5

Besides checking out the new dinner menu, we also tried some items from the weekend brunch. One of their popular weekend brunch items is the Chicken Urfa Kebab ($28). The minced chicken thigh is grilled to a delightful tender texture, packed with beautiful aromatics. The cabbage salad tossed in tahini and amba, orange, mint and a dollop of garlic sauce brighten up the whole enjoyment.

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Crispy Lamb Floss 3/5

The Crispy Lamb Floss ($28) comes topped with a sunny side-up and hummus on the side. Using lamb shoulder, it is braised, shredded and cooked to crispy. The hummus has also been thinned down.

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Cauliflower Kushari 3/5

The Cauliflower Kishari ($24) consists of deep-fried cauliflower, rocket leaves, onions, lentils, mint, puffed corn and fragrant basmati rice. It is then tossed in shallot oil, and seasoned with salt and amba. For brunch, it even comes with a marinated Japanese ramen egg.

I have always known Artichoke as a brunch place, and it never occurred to me that it is a Middle Eastern restaurant, serving delicious but yet not so authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. After nine years and it is still around, it speaks a lot of their food, isn't it?

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Artichoke
161 Middle Road
Singapore 188978
Tel: +65 63366949
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line), Bencoolen (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun:
Hang Time: 4pm - 6pm
Dinner: 6pm - 945pm
Sat-Sun:
Brunch 1130am - 245pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bencoolen MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk down Waterloo Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to junction of Victoria Street and Middle Road. Turn right onto Middle Road.  Walk to junction of Middle Road and Waterloo Street. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]