Showing posts with label Braised Pork. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Braised Pork. Show all posts

Friday, September 9, 2022

Monki (台灣小吃部) @ The Star Vista - Homely And Comforting Taiwan Cuisine

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Monki (台灣小吃部) is a Taiwanese restaurant that has moved into Star Vista, located just beside the taxi stand. I remembered visiting the cafe previously at Holland Drive, but I was only there for desserts. I will try out some of their snacks and mains this time.

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Taiwan Century Egg Tofu 3.8/5

We started with the chilled Taiwan Century Egg Tofu ($8), generously topped with pork floss and bonito flakes. While it is an appetising starter, I felt the century egg lacked that pungent I was looking for.

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Double Mix Mee Sua 4.2/5

There are a few combinations for the Mee Sua, and I went for the Double Mix Mee Sua ($11), picking the big intestine and oyster. The big intestine was not gamey. I recommend adding more vinegar and a dash of chilli to elevate the taste profile to enjoy the thick, smooth, and slurping goodness.

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Taiwan Braised Pork Rice 4.2/5

The Taiwan Braised Pork Rice ($9) comes with fragrant and fluffy rice topped with fatty braised pork. I like that it is very saucy, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a delightful mouthfeel. It even comes with a braised egg and tau pok.

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Taiwan Fried Chicken Cutlet 4/5

We also ordered the Taiwan Fried Chicken Cutlet ($8) to complete our meal. It is incredibly huge, tender and juicy with a crispy coat.

The dishes here felt homely and comforting. Maybe I have been missing Taiwan since the closure of the border due COVIID.


Monki (台灣小吃部)
The Star Vista
1 Vista Exchange Green
#01-41
Singapore 138617
Tel: +65 62588112
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1030am - 9pm
Fri: 1030am - 930am
Sat: 9am - 930pm
Sun: 1030am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Buona Vista MRT station. Take Exit A or C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.[Map]

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Nonbei Izakaya @ Southbridge Road (Chinatown) - New Izakaya Restaurant Inspired By Tokyo's Nonbei Yokocho

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Nonbei Izakaya at South Bridge Road, located beside the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown, is a new izakaya restaurant inspired by Tokyo's Nonbei Yokocho.

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Ohitashi 3.5/5

We had the Ohitashi ($6) to kickstart our dinner. The vegetables marinated with dashi are crowned with a pile of bonito flakes.

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Tamago Yaki 4/5

Both young and old will enjoy the Tamago Yaki ($10). The Japanese omelette is sweet, soft and fluffy.

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Sashimi 5 Kinds 4.5/5

We were astonished at how reasonably priced the Sashimi 5 Kinds ($38) were. For only thirty-eight dollars, you get five thickly cut varieties. It is a steal. You can also top up $18 for Hon Toro.

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Buri Kama Shio Yaki 4.2/5

Grilled to perfection is the Buri Kama Shio Yaki ($18). The grilled yellowtail collar has a thin crispy skin on the exterior, while the moist fish meat comes with a hint of smokiness.

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Kushi Yaki 3.8/5

Since this is an izakaya place, we need to order some kushiyaki to accompany our drinks. So we ordered a couple of yakitori from the menu, such as the Tebasaki (Japanese Chicken Wings), Yakitori (Chicken Skewers), Tori Kawa (Chicken Skin Skewers), Asparagus Bacon (Asparagus wrapped with Bacon), Mukago (Japanese Yam), Ko Tamanegi (Charred Onion). Each skewer ranges from $1.50 to $3. My favourite is the tebasaki and yakitori.

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Buta Kakuni 3/5

For the cooked item, we tried the Buta Kakuni, which has been cooked to tender and infused with fragrant soy sauce. Interestingly, some dining companions commented that it tasted like a particular can tinned braised pork brand, in a delicious homely familiarity.

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Ebi Tempura 4/5

Comes with a light and thin crispy coat is the Ebi Tempura ($15) that will delight everyone with its sweetness and crunch.

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Chashu Ramen 3.5/5

If you are still hungry after all the drinks and bites, the Chashu Ramen ($12) is something more substantial to fill your tummy. The chashu reminds us of the buta kakuni, which probably is the weak link of the bowl of slurping goodness.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nonbei Izakaya
282 South Bridge Road
Singapore 058831
Tel: +65 81128028
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 5pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk to the end of Trengganu Street and turn left onto Sago Street. Walk to the end of Sago Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

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


Sunday, November 7, 2021

Nosignboard Sheng Jian @ Northpoint City - New Flagship Shanghai Sheng Jian Bao Specialty Shop By No Signboard Group

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No Signboard, known as the original creators of Singapore's White Pepper Crab with over 40 years of heritage, has launched the group's latest casual dining concept - Nosignboard Sheng Jian at Northpoint City. It specialises in the popular Shanghai Sheng Jiao Bao and a whole lineup of Northern Chinese dim sum and dishes.

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Tricolour Sheng Jian Bao 4.2/5

The highlight definitely has to be the Sheng Jian Bao here which boosts a delightfully chewy texture. There are four flavours here. They are the Signature Popping Juices ($5.50 for 3pc), Chilli Crab and Pork ($6.30 for 3pc), Spicy Dried Shrimp ($5.80 for 3pc) and Vegan Sheng Jian Bao ($5.30 for 3pc). Are you spoilt of choices? Then go for the Tricolour Sheng Jian Bao ($10.80 for 6pc) to get a taste of a variety of the Sheng Jian Bao. My favourite has to be the signature popping juices pan-fried bun for its savoury and juicy pork filling.

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Spicy Chicken in Sichuan Style 3.5/5

Besides the Sheng Jian Bao, the restaurant also offers a selection of other tasty dishes, rice and noodles. We had the Spicy Chicken in Sichuan Style ($7.80) served chilled. It comes in fiery-looking Sichuan Mala spicy sauce prepared in a blend of Sichuan peppercorns, spices and chillies. I find the sauce lacks the aroma of a good Kou Shui Ji, though.

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Famous Wu Xi Braised Pork Cube 4/5

The Famous Wu Xi Braised Pork Cube ($14.80) fares much better. The braised pork belly cubes are fork-tender and coated in a deliciously thick, luscious red sauce with sweet vinegar.

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Fried Noodle with Scallion & Dried Shrimps 3.8/5

The Fried Noodle with Scallion & Dried Shrimps ($6.80) looks plain without any accompanying ingredients. Still, it is packed with exquisite flavours from scallion oil and dried shrimps.

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Crispy Rice with Chill Crab Meat Sauce 3.8/5

Crispy rice is well enjoyed in Northern China, traditionally eaten on its own or with a rich dip or gravy. At Nosignboard Sheng Jian, the Crispy Rice with Chill Crab Meat Sauce ($14.80) is given a local touch by pairing the Chinese rice crisps with Singapore chilli crab dip.

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Deep Fried Radish Pastry 4.2/5

Besides the sheng jian bao, the other item on the menu that I enjoyed a lot is the traditional Shanghainese pastry - Deep Fried Radish Pastry ($5.80 for 3pc). Inside the light and buttery, flaky pastry is a savoury filling of flavourful white radish.

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Chilled Coconut Papaya Pudding 3.5/5

The Chilled Coconut Papaya Pudding ($4.80 for 3pc) stands like the Marina Bay Sands towers. I enjoyed this simple dessert because it has two of my favourite fruits: coconut and papaya.

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Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Balls 4.2/5

A delightful dessert is the Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Balls ($4.80 for 3pc) served warm. Inside the crispy sphere's skin is soft custard filling to end the meal on a sweet note.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Nosignboard Sheng Jian
Northpoint City
South Wing
#01-137/138
1 Northpoint Drive
Singapore 768019
Tel: +65 66659959
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Yishun (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 930pm

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

Friday, July 23, 2021

Birds Of A Feather @ Amoy Street - Spreading The Wings Of Creativity

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Birds of A Feather at Amoy Street has soared to a greater height with a repertoire of new mainstays. I have been a fan of Executive Chef Eugene See's interpretation of Sichuan cuisine, combining Sichuan and western flavours. The new menu once again offers surprises, giving classic Sichuan offerings a unique twist.

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Birds Avocado & Crab Bruschetta 4.2/5

We have a couple of appetisers to kick start the dinner. The Birds Avocado & Crab Bruschetta ($18) comes in a chunky and creamy crab-avocado combination, sitting on a slab of buttery brioche. The addition of vine pepper in the crab-avocado combination gives it a pleasant yet surprise kick to the whole enjoyment.

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House Cured Duck Breast Bruschetta 4.2/5

Another bruschetta on the menu is the House Cured Duck Breast Bruschetta ($21). The dish pays tribute to Sichuan aged meat, using the French moulard duck. The tender duck breast is marinated with Sichuan seasoning and aged for around 20 days. I appreciate the touch of fruity sweetness from the fig and blackberry marmalade, elevating the enjoyment.

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Double Cooked Pork Belly 4/5

Double Cooked Pork Belly ($22), a quintessential Sichuan dish, is given a new twist with char-grilled octopus leg for an additional soft, chewy texture bite. Underneath is a bed of fregula, providing a multi-textural enjoyment.

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BBQ French Quail 4.5/5

I applauded the execution of the BBQ French Quail ($23), incorporating the barbecue technique commonly found on the streets of Chengdu to the French ingredient. The bird is brushed with chilli oil throughout the grilling process and dusted with a blend of Sichuan spices. Slightly crisp on the exterior, smokey, tender, coupled with the aromatic Sichuan flavours, the chef has brought a new appreciation of the ingredient to the table.

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Whole Wild Caught John Dory (800g - 1kg) 4/5

Great for sharing is the Whole Wild Caught John Dory ($120 for 800g - 1kg). Pre-order is recommended. The wild-caught fish is grilled in a charcoal oven, layered with burnt chillies. To enjoy the fish's firm and flaky flesh, the waitstaff will pour the classic French beurre blanc with wine pepper over the grilled fish for an aromatic finishing oomph.

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Two Way Braised Tofu (Mapo Style, Wagyu Sliced Beef) 4.2/5

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The Two Way Braised Tofu ($25) served with sliced A4 wagyu is reminiscent of the classic Sichuan Mapo Tofu dish. However, unlike the traditional dish, it has both silky tofu and marinated fried tofu. The soul must be the chilli red oil and broad bean chilli paste, bringing the ingredients together. While the wagyu slices give the dish another dimension, soaking up the moreish sauce, I do not see the need for it.

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Sichuan Maine Lobster 4/5

Instead of boiled fish or pork, Birds of A Feather up the game with the Sichuan Maine Lobster ($42). When the dish arrives on the table, the waitstaff will pour hot oil over the dish, sizzling the spices to bring out the aromas. 

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Homestyle Braised Pork Belly 4.5/5

A crowd favourite is the Homestyle Braised Pork Belly ($58), brimming with tea tree mushroom, mushroom garlic rice, unctuous pork belly and shaved truffle. What brightens the enjoyment is the Sichuan chilli bean paste, fermented black beans, salt and soy sauce, elevating the flavour profile of the rice dish. 

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Glutinous Rice Cake Rock 4.2/5

The Glutinous Rice Cake Rock ($15) is a warm dessert comprising soft and sticky glutinous rice laboriously pounded by hand and steamed. The texture is almost like mochi coated with red sugar caramel, served with sesame parfait.

Having dined at Birds of A Feather numerous times, I enjoyed the new menu. Compared to its previous menu, I felt the flavours are bolder in the new menu. 

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Birds of A Feather
115 Amoy Street
Singapore 069935
Tel: +65 62217449
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 11pm

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 12 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, May 12, 2021

Coffee Lounge @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Refreshed Taiwan Porridge A La Carte Buffet

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Coffee Lounge at Goodwood Park Hotel has recently refreshed its signature Taiwan Porridge A La Carte Buffet by introducing a new tiered offering – Value and Deluxe with two different pricings, as well as additions to the menu.

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With the Value Tier (priced at $33++ per adult, $19.80++ per child), tuck into 26 comforting dishes with all-time favourites like Fried Omelette with ‘Chye Poh’ 菜脯煎蛋, Steamed Minced Pork with Salted Egg Yolk 咸蛋蒸肉饼, and Stir-fried Eggplant with Sliced Pork in Chilli Bean Paste 酱爆茄子.

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Also, new to the line-up is French Beans with Sakura Ebi 樱花虾四季豆, Three Cup Chicken 三杯鸡, Pan-fried Minced Pork with Salted Fish 咸鱼煎肉饼, Stir-fried Pumpkin with Eggs and Garlic 金瓜丝炒蒜蓉鸡蛋, and more.

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Indulge in greater variety with the Deluxe Tier (priced at $48++ per adult and $28.80++ per child). Relish 36 highlights including dishes that are exclusive to this tier, like perennial must-haves such as the crispy Baby Squids in Sweet Oyster Sauce 蚝汁乌贼仔.

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Look forward to delectable new dishes such as Deep-fried Beancurd with Minced Pork 肉酱炸豆腐, Stir-fried Lettuce with Fermented Bean Paste 腐乳西生菜 and Crispy Chicken with Sweet Plum Sauce 酥炸鸡西施汁.

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Limited to one selection and serving per table is the Chef’s Special, and specially created for the refreshed menu are Wok-fried Prawns with Salted Egg Yolk 咸蛋虾球 and Deep-fried Black Pomfret with Sambal and Chinchalok Dip 参巴黑鲳鱼.

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We particularly enjoyed the Salted Egg Chicken 咸蛋鸡, which is extremely juicy and tender, coated with a dry sweet-savoury salted egg sauce. It is so good that it will have you going for seconds. The Crispy Chicken with Sweet Plum Sauce 酥炸鸡西施汁 has nice crispy skin and juicy meat. We felt that the addition of sweet plum sauce complements the savoury chicken pieces very well.

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Both tiers also offer an array of casserole dishes from the buffet station. Slow-braised to develop deep flavours or stir-fried with robust and savoury sauces, the dishes are well enjoyed with the unlimited servings of steaming rice porridge with sweet potato.

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Some of our favourites include the new Braised Duck Leg with Chinese Spice, Egg and ‘Tau Pok’ in Dark Soya Sauce 卤水鸭腿 and the signature Braised Pork Belly in Dark Soya Sauce 京酱扣肉. Round up the meal with desserts of the day, a delightful Western and Asian assortment that varies daily.

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Guests may call (65) 6730 1746 or email coffee_lounge@goodwoodparkhotel.com to make a reservation at Coffee Lounge. Alternatively, online reservations can be placed at https://www.goodwoodparkhotel.com/dining/coffee-lounge.

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Taiwan Porridge A La Carte Buffet
Dine-in only at Coffee Lounge
Available daily for lunch from 12pm to 2.30pm & dinner from 6pm to 10.30pm

Value Tier: $33++ per adult, $19.80++ per child
Deluxe Tier: $48++ per adult, $28.80++ per child
Local Beverages: A top-up of $15++ per jug

A minimum of two persons is required for the buffet.
Orders for all diners at the same table have to be of the same a la carte buffet tier.
Pricing includes unlimited servings of porridge and desserts of the day.
Child pricing applies for children aged 6 to 11 years.

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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.


Coffee Lounge
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Dining at Home During Circuit Breaker - The Salted Plum

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With the COVID-19 pandemic, we have to shelve our travel plan until all the travel ban and restriction is lifted. If you have been to Taiwan and miss its cuisine, let The Salted Plum brings a piece of their Taiwanese Zichar rendition to your home during the circuit breaker period.

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Lu Rou and 12-hr Eggs

The Family Value Set which comes with options for 3-4 pax and 5-6 pax. Customers can also choose to upgrade their rice to sweet potato congee. I had the regular family set which comes with Lu Rou, 12-hr Eggs, Cold Tofu, Oyster Mushrooms, Smashed Potatoes, Smashed Cucumber, Pork Chop, Burnt Chilli Chicken, Mei Cai and Red Tea Jelly Dessert.

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Cold Tofu

Among the spread of dishes, I really enjoyed the fork-tender Braised Pork Belly and the soft, silky Cold Tofu.

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Oyster Mushrooms, Smashed Potatoes, Pork Chop

The Oyster Mushrooms, Smashed Potatoes and Pork Chop are deep-fried to a delightful bite, but I just felt that there was too much fried stuff.

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Burnt Chilli Chicken

Tender and juicy is the Burnt Chilli Chicken. I like the hint of smokiness on top of that spicy kick.

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Mei Cai

I like my Mei Cai, but the seasoning was a bit heavy for my delivery. I am sure they can do better in standard and consistency.

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Red Tea Jelly Dessert

Last but not least, wrapped up the meal with Red Tea Jelly Dessert. It even comes with chewy tapioca balls giving the dessert a pleasing textural contrast to the crunchy, gelatin jelly.

The Salted Plum offers both takeaway and island-wide delivery. To order visit https://www.saltedplum.co.


The Salted Plum
10 Circular Road
Singapore 049366
Tel: +65 62600155
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 930pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road. Walk to Carpenter Street. Walk to the end of Carpenter Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the Road. Walk to junction of South Bridge Road and Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight At Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to Circular Road. Walk down Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]