Binary @ Palais Renaissance - 45-Seater Gastrobar with Asian and Western Concepts Blended in One Space

Binary is a contemporary 45-seater gastrobar along Orchard Road that blends Asian and Western culinary concepts. Its menu offers diners a unique experience by providing different takes and cooking methods for the same produce in both their Small Plates and Mains.

It was a weekday night, and the restaurant was busy with diners winding down from the day, enjoying their extensive selection of drinks, such as wines, craft beers, and specially crafted cocktails.

Signature Kubaneh Bread 4.2/5

We knew that the Binary Signature Kubaneh Bread ($14) was a must-try, seeing it on almost every table. This homemade Yemenite Jewish bread served warm with compound garlic butter and kombu butter, had a fluffy, soft texture with a thin, crisp exterior. I loved it most paired with the fragrant and savoury kombu butter.

Cheese - Asian 2.8/5

For Cheese ($18), we opted for their Asian rendition, which featured triangles of grilled halloumi cheese on a salad drizzled with a spicy cheese sauce. Although the slight heat was appetising, the halloumi's texture was overly tough.

Octopus in “Lao Gan Ma” Chilli Crisp 3.5/5

We also tried the Asian version of Octopus ($32), prepared with "Lao Gan Ma" Chilli Crisp. While it was an interesting fusion, we expected a bit more depth in flavour for the price. Otherwise, the octopus bites had a good cook on them. The Western version offers the octopus with homemade pesto.

Grilled Asparagus 2/5

The Grilled Asparagus ($14), nicely charred to a crunch, was paired with cured egg aioli, grated parmigiano, and Viking salt-cured egg yolk. Unfortunately, it was too salty.

Mushroom Fritti 3.8/5

The Mushroom Fritti ($14) featured deep-fried king oyster mushroom strips tossed in a salt and pepper spice mix. These were well-fried without being greasy, though slightly pricey for the portion.

Seafood Laksa Pasta 2.8/5

We were looking forward to the Seafood Laksa Pasta ($14), which had tiger prawns, fishcake, fried beancurd, and quail eggs. Although the laksa sauce was decently aromatic, the amount of salt could have been reduced.

Iberico Presa - Asian 4/5

Mains' options include 'Catch of the Week', Spatchcock Chicken, King Prawn, Wagyu Flank Steak, and Iberico Presa ($42). We chose the pork for its intriguing Asian twist with Vietnamese spices and a side of nước chấm (fish sauce) for dipping. The pork slices had a fresh hint of lemongrass and were moist with a good bite.

Reservations for Binary can be made via call to 9363 0101.

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.


Binary
Palais Renaissance
#01-01A
390 Orchard Road
Singapore 238871
Tel: +65 9363 0101
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10.30pm

Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Wheelock Place. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Angullia Park. Cross the road to Royal Thai Embassy. Turn left and continue down Orchard Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

AMI Patisserie @ Scotts Road - Popular Online Pastry Shop Opens First Physical Concept, Crafting Fine Pastries through an ode to Japanese and French Traditions

AMI Patisserie, celebrated for its online prowess in crafting exquisite pastries under the skilled hands of Chef Makoto Arami, has finally materialised into a physical haven at 27 Scotts Road. The Kyoto-style wooden townhouse on the grounds of the colonial black and white bungalow marks AMI Patisserie's debut in the brick-and-mortar world.

Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a serenely elegant Patisserie Café, offering seating for 12. This inviting space provides the perfect backdrop for intimate brunches or leisurely afternoon teas, showcasing fine a la carte sweets, savouries, and viennoiseries — all artfully prepared a la minute. The Chef's Table Discovery Experience ($118++) awaits for a deeper gastronomic affair in the exclusive 8-seat Tsudoi Dining Room.

Piedmont Hazelnut Financier 4.8/5

I had the privilege of embarking on the Chef's Table Discovery Menu — an exquisite 6-course culinary journey that delved into the artistry of pastry creation by Chef Makoto Arami. The Piedmont Hazelnut Financier initiated our journey. Spread with hazelnut praline and adorned with shaved roasted Piedmont hazelnuts, it provided a sweet overture to our 6-course symphony.

Bread Basket 4.5/5

A complimentary Bread Basket graced our table, featuring Sourdough Bread and Iwa Nori Escargot Bun. Accompanied by applewood-smoked and whipped unsalted Lescure butter, these creations showcased Chef Makoto's prowess in bread making too.

1st Course - Signature Choux 5/5

The Signature Choux held a special place in Chef Makoto's heart, paying homage to his father's choux recipe. This Japanese egg-filled craqueline choux, topped with crème fraîche, Schrenckii caviar, hanaho, and edible gold flakes, delivered a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours — a perfect harmony of crispiness and complexity.

2nd Course - Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette 4.8/5

The Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette drew inspiration from Chef Makoto's love for Italian flavours. Aged parmesan tartelette, topped with fromage blanc cream, fresh Amela tomatoes, basil oil, micro basil, and cornflower, harmonised Italian classics with a modern twist.

3rd Course - Japanese Uni Brioche 4.8/5

The Japanese Uni Brioche showcased Chef Makoto's fusion prowess, featuring brown butter brioche topped with lime cream, sea urchin, grated fresh wasabi, finger lime, and lime zest. This creation provided a burst of flavours, bursting with a firework of delights.

4th Course - Nasu Brulee 4.2/5

Inspired by Kyoto's Miso Dengaku, the Nasu Brulee featured bruleed eggplant custard, grilled beinasu dusted with sansho powder, and miso caramel. Paired with soy and miso ice cream, it presented a unique and complex flavour profile.

Palate Cleanser - La France Pear 4.2/5

A refreshing interlude came in the form of La France Pear — fresh pear topped with pear puree, chamomile gelee, and yuzu and pear granita. It is a sweet and invigorating dessert that cleanses the palate.

5th Course - Marble Dark Chocolate 4.2/5

The Marble Dark Chocolate was an artistic ode comprising three types of ganache, layered with plain and chocolate tuile and finished with a quenelle of Amaretto ice cream. This dessert celebrated the craftsmanship of the ceramic ware master who crafted the tableware for the Tsudoi Dining Room.

6th Course - Ichigo Milk 4.2/5

The Ichigo Milk, a finale featuring Amaou strawberries, showcased the 'king of Japanese strawberries.' With strawberries mixed in strawberry sauce, fromage blanc mousse, mint gelee, Hokkaido milk ice cream, strawberry granita, and edible gold flakes, it was a delightful conclusion — a light yet sweet ending to the culinary journey.

Oyatsu - Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie 4.5/5

To cap off the experience, the Oyatsu — Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie — offered a taste of Lunar New Year festivities. A Mille feuille puff pastry filled with almond cream, pineapple jam simmered with Okinawan kokuto black sugar, and kumquats from Miyazaki prefecture provided a sweet and symbolic ending.

In conclusion, the Chef's Table Discovery Experience at AMi Patisserie transcended a mere culinary journey — a symphony of flavours, artistry, and sentiment. Chef Makoto Arami's meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful compositions elevate pastries to a form of culinary art, offering patrons an unforgettable and deeply personal gastronomic encounter. AMi Patisserie's physical concept place is more than a patisserie. It is a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that defines Chef Makoto Arami's culinary world.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AMI Patisserie
27 Scotts Road
Singapore 228222
Tel:+65 8907 6146
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Patisserie Café
Tue-Fri: 1130am - 6pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 6pm
(Closed Mon-Tue from 19 Feb 2024 onwards)

Tsudoi Dining Room - Chef's Table Discovery Experience
Wed-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 7pm - 9pm
Sun: 12pm - 6pm

Diretion:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Kimchi Dining @ Orchard Central - Aesthetic Korean Restaurant Offering Modern Korean Dining Concept

Kimchi Dining is a modern Korean dining concept located on the 6th floor of Orchard Central. The menu offers ala carte dishes as well as set menu for 2-pax and 4-pax. We tried the 2-pax set menu ($60/pax) that comes with appetisers and mains, 2 desserts and 2 makgeolli cocktails (tea options are also available).

Makgeolli Bread 4/5

Our meal started with warm and comforting Makgeolli Bread, served with a generous portion of White Bean butter. The bread was mildly sweet and fluffy with a slight chewy texture.

Kimchi Platter 3.5/5

Next came the Kimchi Platter, showcasing 6 types of house-fermented kimchi. While the portion of some of the kimchi was rather sad-looking with a couple of vegetable strands, I enjoyed the experience of being able to try their different taste profiles.

Gaji Ganjeong 3.8/5

Then came Gaji Ganjeong. This charcoal tempura eggplant had an airy batter and was delectable with an umami-sweet honey soy dressing.

Gamjajeon 5/5

The set includes the much highly-raved Gamjajeon. These potato pancakes are shaped into mini rosti with moreish crispy edges. Topped with sharp Parmesan cheese, radish, and tangy onion jangaiji, the various flavour nuances woven into these otherwise simple potato pancakes make them even more irresistible. The creamy Siberian onion truffle mayo gives it a satisfying, mouth-filling texture.

Arongsatae & Dogani 4/5

Jeju Pork Noodle 3/5

For Mains, we chose Arongsatae & Dogani and Jeju Pork Noodle. Arongsatae & Dogani is a beef heel muscle and tendon braised for over six hours. The beef itself impressed with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. As for the tendons, I appreciated their clean taste, but some were less tender than expected. The Jeju Pork Noodle, on the other hand, while it had a light and tasty Jeju-style pork broth, paled in comparison due to a rather tough pork belly.

Black Sesame Injeolmi Sundae 3/5

Chocolate Injeolmi Tart 3.8/5

For desserts, we had Chocolate Injeolmi Tart and Black Sesame Injeolmi Sundae. Both desserts incorporated chewy rice balls, adding a contrasting texture. I prefer the bitter-sweet notes of the chocolate tart. The sundae was a tad too sweet due to the drizzling of jujube syrup.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kimchi Dining
Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#06-10
Singapore 238896
Tel:+65 9113 7090
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm 0 930pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 1130am - 930pm
(Closed on Tue)

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

The Hainan Story (海南宝) @ Hillion Mall - 5 Hainanese Brands Under One Roof, Including Ah Chiang's Porridge, Wee Nam Kee And Newspaper Curry Rice

The Hainan Story on a Saturday afternoon was bustling with diners. I see the reason for their popularity, as they have a huge variety of food and offer very family-friendly options.

What is unique about the restaurant's branch here in Hillion Mall is that it houses five different Hainanese brands under one space. These include the renowned Ah Chiang's Porridge, Wee Nam Kee and Newspaper Curry Rice. The space was renovated to look like a vibrantly decorated mini coffeeshop.

Local Beverages

You will find a full list of the familiar local offerings on the beverage menu. We had our usual Kopi and Teh, decently fragrant though a tad sweet.

1980’s Hainanese Pork Cutlet Coated with Potato Chip Crumbs 4/5

On the Western menu by Uncle Robert Hainanese Western & BBQ, we had the traditional 1980's Hainanese Pork Cutlet Coated with Potato Chip Crumbs ($16.80). The BBQ sauce leans sweeter than we'd like, but the crunch on the cutlet was good. We saw several younger diners enjoying this. Other options from the Western menu include pasta, fish and chips and a kids menu.

Mama Wee Curry Chicken Drumstick Set 4.5/5

Newspaper Curry Rice's Mama Wee Curry Chicken Drumstick Set ($9.80) was easily our top favourite of our meal here. The curry here may be different from your liking if you prefer thicker and more lemak renditions, but I loved how this carried a lighter consistency and was superbly fragrant.

My dining companions and I thought this was value for money too. A portion has steamed rice, omelette, sambal tempeh, prawn crackers, drumstick and a side of additive lotus root and brinjal. The accompanying sambal belacan packed a good punch too.

Ah Chiang Mix Porridge Set 4/5

From Ah Chiang's Porridge, we had the Mix Porridge Set: Pork Ball & Sliced Meat ($9.80), which came with half a youtiao. I don't eat porridge that much, but my dining companion, who does, enjoyed this bowl.

The porridge was sufficiently smooth and thick, with a generous amount of tender pork and pork balls. Porridge options here are categorised into pork, batang fish and century egg.

Steamed Chicken Drumstick Rice 3.8/5

Wee Nam Kee's Steamed Chicken Drumstick Rice ($7.10) came complete with a bowl of soup and the classic condiments of chilli, dark soy and ginger sauce. While the chicken meat was tender and succulent, the rice could be much more fragrant.

Laksa with Hainanese Steamed Chicken 3.8/5

If you have laksa cravings, the Laksa with Hainanese Steamed Chicken ($9.80) is a decent option. It is pricier, however, served with steamed chicken, crispy pork skin, fish cake, hard-boiled egg and tau pok.

High-Tea Special 3.5/5

I never expected to see a three-tiered High-Tea Special ($34.80) on the menu! On the base, it features an assortment of fried items such as chicken wings, prawns, fries and ngoh hiang. The middle tier has kaya toast and the traditional Hainanese kueh, Yi Bua. Finally, on top, there are cookies and the eatery's popular mini swiss rolls (orh nee, ondeh ondeh). The set comes inclusive of two drinks.

The two bottom tiers were, unfortunately, average. Our unanimous preferred item was the mini swiss rolls which you can purchase in individual pieces from their bakery.

Speaking about the bakery, do make sure to take a look. The small space is built in the same area as the eatery, accessible from the dining space or from the exterior of Hillion Mall.

Breads were constantly freshly baked, leaving a lovely aroma in the space. We bagged home several recommendations, the Char Siew Bolo ($3.80), Yam Floss Bun ($2.20) and Curry Chicken Polo Bolo ($3.80). All three were fresh and fluffy but could do with slightly more filling.

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.


The Hainan Story
Hillion Mall
17 Petir Road
#01-15/16
Singapore 678278
Tel: +65 69708191
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Nearest MRT: Bukit Panjang (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 730am – 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bukit Panjang MRT station. Take Exit A2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Astor Grill @ St. Regis Singapore - A Pop-up Restaurant Inspired By The Heritage of St. Regis, New York

Nestled within the St. Regis Singapore, The Astor Grill is a pop-up dining experience that promises an unforgettable culinary journey from 1 June to 31 August 2023. This exclusive pop-up brings together premium cuts from renowned artisan suppliers and introduces bespoke dining rituals from the esteemed House of Astor in New York. Available for a la carte lunch and dinner at Brasserie Les Saveurs, The St. Regis Singapore, The Astor Grill offers a truly exquisite experience.

Assorted Bread Basket

To kickstart the gastronomic adventure, diners are treated to a complimentary Assorted Bread Basket featuring a delightful selection of Sourdough, Curry Leaves, and Seaweed-infused bread.

Amuse Bouche

The culinary journey begins with a tantalizing Amuse Bouche—grilled sourdough topped with Tomato and Iberico Ham. While a small morsel, it serves as a flavorful teaser to awaken the taste buds.

Traditional Beef Tartare 4/5

King Crab Salad 4.2/5

Grilled King Prawn 4.2/5

Impeccably crafted starters grace the menu, including the Traditional Beef Tartare ($30), King Crab Salad ($52), and Tiger Prawns 'A la Plancha' with Avocado, Peach, and Basil ($39). Each dish offers a unique combination of flavours and textures, making it difficult to choose a favourite. However, the grilled tiger prawns stand out with their sweet succulence, complemented by the fruity peach and creamy avocado.

Tomahawk Australia Angus Grass Fed 4.2/5

From the signature sharing cuts menu, we had the 1.4kg Australian Grass Fed Angus Tomahawk ($290) grilled over the custom-built parilla grill. The whole tomahawk will be presented on a steak trolley and carved tableside. Beautifully marbled texture, tender and succulent. A rich and robust full-bodied flavour enhanced with the rosemary aroma.

Striploin Japan Full Blood Wagyu A5 4.5/5, Bavette Australian Angus 4.8/5

For discerning palates, The Astor Grill offers artisanal cuts and monthly exclusives. We had the pleasure of savouring the Striploin Japan Full Blood Wagyu A5 500 Days Grain Fed ($170) and Bavette Australian Angus 200 Days Barley Fed ($62). Our table was divided in preferences, with some favouring the Japanese Wagyu for its exceptionally high marbling content, resulting in buttery tenderness. On the other hand, I found the Bavette more appealing, with its well-rounded beefy flavour and a slightly firmer bite, striking a perfect balance between tenderness and texture.

Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb 4.2/5

The menu also features non-steak options, such as the Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb ($76). Perfectly grilled, tender, and devoid of any gaminess, it is a delightful choice for those seeking an alternative to beef.

Grilled Whole Turbot 4.5/5

The Grilled Whole Turbot ($298) is ideal for sharing, and it impresses with its impeccable texture and flavours.

Lemon Tart 4.2/5

Astor Grill Tiramisu 4.5/5

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, The Astor Grill offers a selection of delectable desserts. The Lemon Tart ($22) is a perfect choice for a light and refreshing option. Those with a sweet tooth will delight in the Chocolate Mi-Cuit ($22) and Sticky Toffee Pudding ($22). However, my personal favourite is the Astor Grill Tiramisu ($22)—a deconstructed yet well-balanced rendition comprising espresso-soaked ladyfingers, coffee gelato, and crispy gold crumbs.

Chocolate Mi-Cuit 4/5

Sticky Toffee Pudding 4/5

The Astor Grill at St. Regis Singapore is a culinary haven that delights diners with its exquisite cuts, bespoke dining experiences, and impeccable flavours. Whether you're a steak aficionado or searching for a remarkable dining adventure, The Astor Grill will leave a lasting impression on your palate. There is even a value-for-money 3-course Set Lunch priced at $48.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Astor Grill
St. Regis Singapore
Lobby Level
29 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 65066860
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm 1030pm
Sun: 630pm - 103pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue onwards to Forum Shopping Mall. Walk further down to Orchard Parade Hotel. Turn left onto Tanglin Road. St Regis is just beside Tanglin Shopping Centre. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to Tomlinson Road. Turn left onto Tomlinson Road. Walk to Tanglin Road. Turn right onto Tanglin Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]