Showing posts with label Brioche. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brioche. Show all posts

Friday, May 1, 2026

Labyrinth @ Esplanade Mall - Unveils a Thoughtfully Curated 12th Anniversary Menu Rooted in Produce and Heritage

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Celebrating its 12th anniversary this April 2026, Restaurant Labyrinth continues to push the boundaries of modern Singapore cuisine under the direction of Chef Han Li Guang, alongside Chef de Cuisine Zee Chan and Senior Sous Chef James Ngoi. Building on last year’s “Singapore Cuisine without Borders”, the latest menu refines Chef Han’s minimalist philosophy — an exploration anchored on Produce, Heritage, and Minimalism. Rather than reconstructing or replicating tradition, the kitchen embraces the essence of familiar flavours, distilling them into dishes that are clean, precise, and quietly expressive.

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Sup Tulang, Oxtail Mandu 4.2/5

The journey begins with Sup Tulang, Oxtail Mandu, a refined and thoughtful opener. The dish presents a clear, consommé-style broth that carries surprising depth, drawing inspiration from the robust flavours of sup tulang while incorporating a gentle tang reminiscent of beef sinigang. The acidity lifts the palate, preparing it for the courses ahead. Instead of the traditional bone, a delicate mandu encases slow-braised oxtail, its gelatinous richness balanced by the broth’s lightness. A piece of creamy marrow completes the composition, echoing the indulgence of the original dish in a far more elegant form.

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Prata, Lamb, Raita 4.2/5

Next is Prata, Lamb, Raita, a playful take on the quintessential roti prata. Here, the familiar flatbread is transformed into a crisp, multi-layered pastry tower. Within, tender braised lamb is infused with warm spices, delivering a rich and aromatic bite. A luscious egg yolk crowns the dish, adding a silky element that ties together the crisp pastry and deeply flavoured filling.

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Sawara, Roti Jala 4.5/5

The seafood course, Sawara, Roti Jala, draws inspiration from fish head curry. The use of Japanese sawara introduces a clean, buttery profile, allowing the fish to take centre stage. The curry, laced with tamarind, brings a balanced interplay of acidity and spice that cuts through the natural oiliness of the fish. Paired with soft, lacy roti jala, the dish evokes the comforting ritual of dipping bread into curry, elevated through refined textures and technique.

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Zuwaigani Chilli Crab Pie 4.2/5

A highlight arrives in the form of Zuwaigani Chilli Crab Pie, a clever reinterpretation of Singapore’s iconic chilli crab. Encased in a thin, shatteringly crisp shell, the filling features sweet, delicate snow crab coated in a tangy chilli crab sauce with subtle notes of plum and pickle. By eliminating the need for shell-cracking and reimagining mantou as a light pastry, the dish delivers all the familiar flavours in a neat, indulgent bite.

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Coffee Brioche 4.5/5

The Coffee Brioche follows, offering a warm, comforting interlude. Inspired by local coffee buns, the brioche is airy and buttery, topped with a crackly coffee-infused crust that adds a gentle sweetness and textural contrast. It serves as both a nostalgic nod and a transition into the subsequent courses.

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Shima Aji, Stingless Bee Honey 4.5/5

The menu then shifts to lighter, more delicate expressions with Shima Aji and Stingless Bee Honey. Sliced sashimi-style and arranged like a blossoming flower, the Japanese striped jack is paired with a refreshing watermelon broth. The addition of stingless bee honey introduces floral and citrus notes, creating a natural dressing that enhances the fish’s clean sweetness while maintaining a refined balance.

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Kabu, Pidan Quail Egg 5/5

Following that is the Kabu, Pidan Quail Egg, an elegant interpretation of century egg congee. The creamy base of kabu (turnip) offers a natural sweetness, lifted by subtle acidity from rice vinegar and mirin. The pidan-style quail egg provides a familiar umami depth, while accents of pickled ginger and Sarawak pepper add complexity and gentle spice.

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Spaghettoni, Abalone 5/5

The Spaghettoni, Abalone showcases Chef Han’s mastery in reinterpretation, drawing from mee rebus. Al dente spaghettoni replaces traditional noodles, coated in a velvety, nutty gravy enriched with abalone liver. Thin slices of abalone contribute a delicate oceanic sweetness and a pleasing bite, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and refined.

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Amadai, Inaniwa Somen 5/5

Equally compelling is the Amadai, Inaniwa Somen, inspired by Teochew fish soup. The broth, simmered from fish bones and enriched with a trio of Chinese wines, is deeply flavourful yet remarkably clean. The silky Inaniwa somen provides an elegant texture, while the tender amadai completes a dish that feels both soothing and sophisticated.

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French Poulet, Chicken Rice Donabe 4.2/5

The main course, French Poulet, Chicken Rice Donabe, is a heartfelt tribute to Singapore’s national dish. The chicken is presented in two styles — poached breast and roasted thigh — highlighting both tenderness and depth of flavour. Beneath it lies a bed of Koshihikari and long-grain rice cooked in a donabe, infused with chicken fat, ginger, and pandan. The prized socarrat crust adds a layer of texture, making each bite deeply satisfying.

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Jerusalem Artichoke, Black Truffle 5/5

Dessert begins with Jerusalem Artichoke, Black Truffle, a creative reimagining of orh nee. The use of artichoke instead of yam is surprisingly convincing, delivering a familiar earthy sweetness. Paired with artichoke chips, foam, shallot ice cream, and gingko nuts, the dish balances innovation with nostalgic flavours.

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Kaya ‘Toast’ 4.5/5

The Kaya ‘Toast’ follows, presenting a visually deceptive take on the beloved breakfast staple. What appears to be toast is, in fact, a delicate meringue sandwiching housemade kaya and rich Bordier butter. It captures the essence of kaya toast while showcasing technical finesse.

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Milo Dinosaur 4/5

Finally, the experience concludes with the Milo Dinosaur, a lighter, more refined rendition made with coconut water, offering a nostalgic yet refreshing finish. Petit fours of Kueh Bolu, airy with a subtle banana note, round off the meal on a gentle, comforting note.

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Kueh Bolu 4.5/5

At 12 years on, Restaurant Labyrinth demonstrates a quiet confidence in its craft. This latest menu is not about dramatic reinvention, but a thoughtful distillation of Singapore’s culinary identity — where restraint, technique, and respect for heritage come together in harmonious balance.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Labyrinth
Esplanade Mall
8 Raffles Avenue
#02-23
Singapore 039802
Tel: +65 62234098
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 630pm - 11pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B or D. Walk to Raffles Avenue. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, December 11, 2025

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kempinski - Celebrates The Festive Season with 7-Course Chef Menu Priced at $68.90 per pax

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The Masses is ringing in the festive season with a playful, French-Asian inspired Christmas and New Year menu that showcases Chef Dylan’s signature flair for bold flavours, familiar comforts, and unexpected twists. We were invited to preview the 7-Course Chef Menu (from $68.90 per pax) and their seasonal beverages. What unfolded was a lively mix of colours, textures and creative pairings that will spark conversation around the table.

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The Jingle Juice and The Grinch 3/5

We began with two festive drinks created specially for the season - The Jingle Juice and The Grinch. The Jingle Juice ($7.90/glass or $17.90/jug) is a refreshing cranberry-apple mocktail brightened with lime and mint. It tastes exactly as cheerful as it looks, making it an easy pick for non-alcohol drinkers. The Grinch ($18/glass or $49.90/jug), on the other hand, is a melon-liqueur and Prosecco cocktail that arrives in a gorgeous sparkling green. Visually enticing, though we found the flavour slightly muted compared to its vibrant appearance.

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Home Made “Rainbow” Brioche 4/5

Louis Oyster 2
Louis Oyster 3.8/5

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Gougeres 3/5

The meal opens with a trio of breads and snacks, and the standout for us was the Home Made “Rainbow” Brioche, which came warm, crusty, and beautifully speckled with pecans and prunes for added dimension. Slightly dense but very satisfying, especially when paired with the accompanying umami butter.

The Louis Oyster, topped with Bloody Mary, lime and a rim of smoked chilli salt, brings acidity and spice, though subtly. The Gougeres, stuffed with black truffle and finished with melted comté and kumquat, were adorable and aromatic, but flavour-wise leaned milder than expected.

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Wagyu Beef Tartare 3.5/5

Kawaebi Pasta 2
Kawaebi Pasta 4.2/5

Foie Gras 2
Foie Gras 4.2/5

Among the four starter options, our table sampled three. The Wagyu Beef Tartare surprised us with the clever addition of nashi pear, which added crunch and gentle sweetness to balance the beef. The Kawaebi Pasta was easily the most memorable, packed with “prawn mee” umami thanks to Penang laksa prawn stock, minced pork, confit lemon, kawaebi shrimp and tiger prawn. What the menu didn’t mention but elevated the dish tremendously was the pork lard hidden within.

If you want something indulgent, the Foie Gras (+$15) is a worthy upgrade. Generously portioned, luscious and beautifully complemented by cranberry mostarda, petite apple and poultry jus.

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Duo Irish Duck 3.8/5

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Halibut 4/5

We continued with all three main options. The Duo Irish Duck features a flavourful confit portion and a tender duck breast, which is slightly gamey for my palate but still well-executed. The carrot-tangerine purée was bright, though the purple cabbage purée felt less cohesive, and we ultimately preferred the duck enjoyed on its own.

The Halibut was the favourite among us! A moist, clean-tasting fillet sitting atop a luxurious shellfish fondue hidden underneath. Elegant, balanced and something I would return specifically to order.

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Wagyu Petite Tender 4/5

For beef lovers, the Wagyu Petite Tender (+$15) is a satisfying upgrade. The meat is fork-tender, but the true scene-stealer is the much-talked-about potato pavé that we absolutely couldn’t get enough of. While the miso aubergine purée added depth, it didn’t particularly enhance the wagyu itself.

Blood Orange Granita 2
Blood Orange Granita 3.8/5

A refreshing interlude arrives before desserts: the Blood Orange Granita, which reminded us of a refined take on mango-pomelo dessert. The combination of mango sorbet and pomelo works as a bright palate cleanser after the richer courses.

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Chestnut Crème Caramel 3/5

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Truffle & Tulakalum 3/5

There are two dessert choices. The Chestnut Crème Caramel brings together chestnut ice cream, gingerbread spice and spiced honey under a crème brûlée. Individually, each element is enjoyable, but together the flavours didn’t harmonise as well as expected.

The Truffle & Tulakalum is undoubtedly unique, with a heavy focus on truffles. The truffle ice cream, however, was a touch oily, likely due to truffle oil, but the Valrhona dark chocolate ganache and mousse were rich and well executed.

Restaurant

In true Chef Dylan fashion, the festive menu is creative, bold and peppered with unexpected pairings that make dining here a lively experience. While not every component landed perfectly for us, the menu offers variety, value and conversation-worthy dishes especially for festive gatherings with friends and loved ones.

Aside from the 7-Course Chef Menu, diners can also opt for a 10-Course Communal Menu ($68.90 per pax, min. 3 pax) and a 2-Course Lunch Menu (from $30.90 per pax) if you’re planning a daytime get-together.

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


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
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Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm
Sun: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]


Sunday, September 28, 2025

54° Steakhouse @ Amoy Street - A Contemporary Steakhouse Redefining the Classics

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Located in the heart of the CBD along Amoy Street, 54° Steakhouse is the newest contemporary steakhouse concept by Food Concepts Group (behind Altro Zafferano and Griglia). Its name pays homage to both its address and the precise internal temperature (54 °C) of a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak. Unlike the group’s previous Italian concepts, 54° Steakhouse reinterprets the classic steakhouse through a globally inspired, modern lens.

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Potato Brioche 4/5

A must-try to begin is the Potato Brioche ($8), served with three types of housemade butter – Original, Whipped Caramelised Onion, and Beillevaire Salted Butter. Fluffy and pillowy, the brioche offers a comforting start, elevated by the rich butters.

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Yellow Tuna 4.2/5

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Beef Tenderloin Tartare a la Parisien 4/5

Seafood lovers will appreciate the Yellow Tuna ($24), inspired by smoky Korean beef tartare. Wild-caught Australian tuna is seasoned with smoked ponzu, sesame oil, and crowned with cured egg yolk, its freshness balanced by sweet nashi pear. Alternatively, the Beef Tenderloin Tartare à la Parisien ($28) delivers a more classic rendition. Finely chopped Black Onyx beef is combined with Dijon mustard, gherkins, capers, shallots, and Worcestershire, then topped with egg yolk and accompanied by crisp paprika chips.

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Amela Tomatoes 4.2/5

For something refreshing, the Amela Tomatoes ($22) makes a delightful Mediterranean-style salad with Japanese Amela tomatoes, French beetroot, and smoked Greek yoghurt. Each element is carefully prepared — the beetroot marinated French-style with orange juice and sherry vinegar, while the yoghurt is smoked with applewood, giving depth to the vibrant dish.

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Capellini 4/5

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Pan-Seared Hokkaido Scallops 4/5

The Capellini ($58) is an elegant cold pasta inspired by Japanese noodles, topped with raw Mozambique langoustines and caviar. Seasoned with truffle oil, shio kombu, and Sichuan pepper, the dish is refined yet indulgent. Another highlight is the Pan-Seared Hokkaido Scallops ($32), paired with smoked Snake River Kurobuta bacon and truffle leek velouté — a surf-and-turf interpretation that strikes a balance of richness and delicacy.

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Satsuma Wagyu A4 4.2/5

Of course, the stars of the menu are the steaks. Using a signature method, each cut is first seasoned with a proprietary spice blend before being grilled over Australian ironbark wood for a smoky depth, then finished over white binchotan charcoal for that perfect caramelised crust.

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USDA Prime Linz Heritage Angus 4.2/5

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Black Onyx Angus by Ranger Valley 4/5

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Australian Sanchoku Wagyu 4.5/5

- Satsuma Wagyu A4 ($98/170g) from Kagoshima impresses with its silk-like texture and snowflake marbling.

- USDA Prime Linz Heritage Angus (from $98/320g) delivers bold, full-bodied flavours.

- Black Onyx Angus by Ranger Valley (from $78/250g) is prized for its buttery richness from long grain-feeding.

- Australian Sanchoku Wagyu (from $48/300g) balances tenderness with clean, juicy flavours.

To further enhance the experience, housemade sauces ($8++ each) are available — from the house-blend 54 Steak Sauce to Café de Paris, Chimichurri, Pepperberry & Brandy, and Béarnaise.

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The Lemon 4.2/5

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Burnt New York Cheesecake 4.5/5

Desserts are no afterthought here. The signature The Lemon ($18) surprises with its citrus parfait encased in a delicate white chocolate shell, revealing a refreshing yuzu gel core with lemon sorbet and crumble. For something more indulgent, the Burnt New York Cheesecake ($14), double-baked with French cream cheese and paired with vanilla-blueberry compote, hits the spot. Chocolate lovers will adore the Cold Fondant ($16) — layers of sponge, praline, mousse, and a liquid Gianduja hazelnut-chocolate centre, crafted with Valrhona chocolate for a decadent finish.

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Cold Fondant 4.2/5

54° Steakhouse is not just another steakhouse in the CBD. With its meticulous approach to steaks and a globally inspired menu that strikes a balance between creativity and comfort, it stands out as a destination for both meat lovers and those seeking contemporary dining flair. From refined appetisers to showstopping mains and inventive desserts, it delivers a complete dining experience worth seeking out.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


54° Steakhouse
54 Amoy Street
Singapore 069880
Tel: +65 8893 7701
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat: 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]