Showing posts with label Burnt Cheese Cake. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Burnt Cheese Cake. Show all posts

Saturday, February 14, 2026

Amor @ Amoy Street - New Spanish Restaurant by Chef Wang, Former Founding Team Member of Olivia Restaurant

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Opened in February, Amor is a warm and intimate Spanish restaurant inspired by leisurely meals, shared plates, and the unhurried rhythm of life in Barcelona. Set within a charming shophouse at 107 Amoy Street, its menu draws inspiration from sun-drenched markets, lively tapas bars, and coastal villages by the sea.

Co-founded by Head Chef Yu Wang Leung (Chef Wang), a founding team member of Olivia, and Executive Director Azad Sharma, a hospitality veteran with over a decade of global experience, Amor invites diners to linger, share, and fall in love, one plate at a time.

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Watermelon

To start, we were served an amuse-bouche of juicy Watermelon Cubes, a refreshing burst of sweetness to awaken the palate.

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Escalivada Tarta 4.2/5

The first tapas was the Escalivada Tarta ($16 for two pieces), a Catalan classic reimagined. Smoky, roasted eggplant, capsicum, and onion are layered over a crisp tarta shell and paired with a foie gras terrine, then finished with extra-virgin olive oil, sherry vinegar, and a Parmesan cheese sauce. While I'm not usually a fan of foie gras, its presence here was unexpectedly subtle, adding creaminess to the dish that complemented the crunchy tarta base. A vegetarian version is also available, substituting cheese for the foie gras.

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Happy Egggg 4.8/5

Happy Egggg ($18) lives up to its name, an easy-to-love dish that delivers pure comfort. Served in a martini glass, it reveals layers of silky truffle sabayon, a perfectly cooked 65°C onsen egg with a luscious runny yolk, roasted pumpkin coulis, crispy jamon chips, and brown butter sourdough croutons, finished with a fresh chervil and dill salad. Utterly delicious, it's the kind of indulgent comfort food I would happily eat again and again.

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Gambas Al Ajillo 4.5/5

We sampled a tasting portion of Gambas al Ajillo ($34); the full serving comprises four prawns. The prawns are actually sashimi grade, and were firm and generously sized, cooked in fragrant garlic oil and paired with a smoked potato foam, finished with a dusting of sweet paprika. Addictive and tasty, we just wished we had some bread to mop up the sauce.

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Pulpo De Galicia 4.8/5

The Pulpo de Galicia ($32) was another of the evening's more memorable dishes. The octopus was impeccably cooked, tender yet springy, with crisped edges. Its savoury and lightly smoky flavours were complemented by soft potatoes, sweet corn, and a rich sobrasada sofrito.

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Tea Smoked King Salmon with Avruga Caviar 5/5

We were genuinely blown away by the Tea-Smoked King Salmon with Avruga Caviar ($34), both for its execution and the thoughtfulness behind the dish. Norwegian sashimi-grade salmon is used, combining both belly and back portions and shaped to resemble a single fillet. The fish is gently sous vide before being smoked with Chinese tea, then finished generously with Avruga caviar. The result is exceptionally tender salmon, paired with the savoury caviar. It's finished with vichyssoise (a soup made of cooked and puréed leeks, potatoes, onions and cream), parsley emulsion and wasabi. Pure indulgence, I loved eating this!

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Foie Gras' A La Brasa' 4/5

My dining companion also tried the Foie Gras' A La Brasa' ($40), a barbecued foie gras served with sweet-and-sour endive and burnt onion soup. Presenting the foie gras in a soup was quite unique, though its texture became a bit too soft.

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Paella- Mediterranean Seafood 3.5/5

Naturally, we had to try their Paella ($56), and had the Mediterranean Seafood version, which featured seabass, squid, and shrimp. I found the rice of this paella a bit wet and sticky, lacking the coveted toasted rice bottom layer. While I don't really mind the sticky rice texture, the seabass also imparted a strong fishy taste to the dish, which I didn't enjoy.

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Signature Basque Burnt Cheesecake 4/5

Moving on to desserts, we had their Signature Basque Burnt Cheesecake ($16), a creamy confection with a hint of savoury blue cheese complexity. I was initially hesitant, as blue cheese is not my thing. However, it was surprisingly pretty good: the blue cheese flavour was mild, offering more smoky savouriness than an overpowering blue cheese taste. It was still a bit too rich overall, and we couldn't finish the slice between the two of us, but cheese lovers will definitely enjoy this one!

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Hazelnut & Molten Lava Cake 4.5/5

The Hazelnut & Molten Lava Cake ($18) was a bigger hit with our taste buds; my dining companion even declared it the best dessert ever! This warm hazelnut and almond praline cake features a molten, flowing centre that's rich, intense, and indulgent, served straight from the oven. It's intriguingly paired with coconut ice cream, and together, it's very yummy.

Overall, this is a solid tapas spot, and their first menu is a strong start with lots of hits and even some exceptionally good dishes. As someone who enjoys veggie-forward dishes, I was pleased to know that many of their offerings can also be made vegetarian, as one of the investors is a vegetarian himself. Visiting in the afternoon also offers a leisurely lunch with great value: set menus at $38++ that include sharing tapas, a main course, and dessert.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Amor
107 Amoy Street
Singapore 069927
Tel: +65 89165607
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 8 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Le Jardin @ Fort Canning Park - French European Cuisine Amidst Lush Greenery in Heart of Fort Canning Park

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Le Jardin is tucked away in a quiet corner of Fort Canning Park, surrounded by lush greenery at Level 2 of Fort Canning Arts Centre.

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Diners can choose to sit al fresco on its breezy porch or step indoors into a charming Victorian-style space inspired by Monet’s garden in Giverny, Paris.

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The interior is adorned with fresh-cut blooms and preserved florals, and also serves as a lovely venue for events and intimate weddings.

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This French European restaurant makes for a pleasant pit stop throughout the day, with a menu spanning Breakfast Brunch, Side Dishes, Mains, House-made Desserts, and a Kids’ Menu. The beverage list is equally extensive, offering classic coffees and teas, as well as speciality drinks and alcoholic options.

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Burrata 4.2/5

The Burrata ($18) was a pleasant sharing starter, featuring milky cheese paired with a base of mildly earthy pea velouté, tangy pickled cherry tomatoes and parma ham.

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Crab Cake 4/5

Seafood lovers may consider the Crab Cake ($18). The pan-seared cake was generously packed with crab meat, made even more appetising by a touch of heat from the tomato and chilli coulis and the freshness of the tomato salsa.

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Truffle Fries 3.8/5

The Truffle Fries ($18) were fried to a nice crunch, though we felt the cheese could have been more generous and the truffle flavour could have been more pronounced.

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Spicy Pan Seared Prawn Alfredo 4.5/5

Our favourite dish was the Spicy Pan Seared Prawn Alfredo ($24), which can also be prepared non-spicy upon request. The al dente linguine was beautifully coated in the rich, house-made shrimp Alfredo sauce, with the spice helping cut through its creamy consistency. The addition of sakura ebi as a topping was a clever touch, adding a subtle briny note.

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Pan Seared Salmon 4.2/5

The Pan Seared Salmon ($30) arrived with a crisped skin, accompanied by asparagus, tomatoes, buttery mashed potatoes and a creamy tobiko beurre blanc. We particularly enjoyed the tanginess of the beurre blanc, enhanced by the savoury pops of tobiko.

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Burnt Basque Cheesecake 3.5/5

For dessert, we went with the Burnt Basque Cheesecake ($14). While it was sufficiently cheesy, we wished it had a much more oozy centre for better texture.

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Lemon Cloud Matcha 4.2/5

The Lemon Cloud Matcha ($10.90) was a delightful surprise, made with homemade honey lemon cream, lemonade, and matcha. The matcha was mildly earthy, well-balanced in sweetness, and finished with a refreshing citrusy zing.

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Violet Secret 3/5

My dining companion’s Violet Secret ($9.90) combined Kyoto grape, lime and jasmine tea. While the flavour combination was interesting, it was unfortunately a little too sweet for our liking.

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.


Le Jardin
Fort Canning Arts Centre
Level 2
5 Cox Terrace
Singapore 179620
Tel: +65 8870 9977
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut MRT (NE, CC, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Penang Road. Cross the road to UBS Singapore. Cut through UBS Singapore to Fort Canning Road. Cross the road to Fort Canning. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]


Friday, October 10, 2025

Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) @ Tras Street - Modern Chinese Cuisine with a Global Flair

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Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) on Tras Street is the newest addition to the scene, offering a fresh take on traditional Chinese cuisine. At the helm is Beijing-born Chef Ethan Lee, who brings a wealth of culinary experience from across Europe, including Lyon, Italy, and Barcelona, as well as his grounding in his family's Beijing restaurant. His cross-cultural background has shaped a bold and inventive menu that surprises while staying rooted in comfort and familiarity.

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Lee's Steamed Roasted Iberico Pork "Siu Mai" 4.2/5

Lee's Steamed Roasted Iberico Pork "Siu Mai" ($3.90/pc, min. 5 pcs) is freshly made daily. These parcels reveal hand-chopped Iberico pork bursting with juicy richness, finished with garden greens and a hint of wasabi for a gentle kick. The presentation stood out — a playful twist on the classic siu mai with a crispy skirt reminiscent of Japanese gyoza.

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Fish Maw, Silkie Fowl, Double Boiled Soup 3.8/5

The Premium Double Boiled Soup of the Day is Fish Maw, Silkie Fowl, Double Boiled Soup ($15/pax). It offered nourishment and comfort, though it lacked the depth and intensity one might expect from a traditional Cantonese-style soup.

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Yellow Tail Amberjack 3.8/5

The Yellowtail Amberjack ($18) was well-portioned, featuring thickly sliced amberjack accompanied by a combination of tomato and mango. While refreshing, the citrus dressing leaned a little too sharp, overshadowing the natural sweetness of the fish and fruit.

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Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in Filo Foil 4/5

The Foie Gras Terrine wrapped in Filo Foil ($6.90/pc, min. 2 pcs) was a creative highlight. Marinated with Chinese spices like five spice, star anise, and dried apple, the foie gras was slow-cooked in German sweet wine, encased in crisp filo pastry, and finished with a fruity vinegar sauce. The result is a beautifully balanced mouthful of richness and acidity.

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The Classic Ngoh Hiang 4/5

The Classic Ngoh Hiang ($16) is a refined take on the local favourite. Handcrafted daily, the meat rolls are juicy with a satisfying crunch, complemented by a tangy and mildly spicy Nam Jim sauce that enhances the savoury flavours.

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Braised Monkfish 4.5/5

The Braised Monkfish ($48) was one of the evening's standouts. Firm yet delicate, the monkfish paired beautifully with jumbo asparagus and heirloom tomatoes. The savoury, mildly spicy sauce was the soul of the dish, tying everything together in harmony.

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Grilled King Prawn with Handmade Noodle 3.8/5

The Grilled King Prawn with Handmade Noodle ($32) featured springy noodles cooked in a prawn and tobiko bisque, topped with a grilled king prawn. While the presentation was appealing, the bisque could have been more robust and flavourful to bring the dish to life.

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Homemade Burnt Cheesecake 4.5/5

Dessert was a delightful surprise. The Homemade Burnt Cheesecake with Chives ($12) is served with salted egg yolk ice cream. The cheesecake was creamy and luscious, with the chives adding an aromatic twist. The salted egg yolk ice cream paired perfectly, elevating the dessert with a sweet-savoury balance that kept us going back for more.

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Guests can look forward to a wide range of offerings, from à la carte "tapas-style" small plates and mains to handcrafted desserts. For those seeking value, the set lunch and dinner menus are a great introduction to Chef Lee's creativity – starting from $25 for lunch and $35 for dinner, an exceptional value for its calibre.

Special Promotion – Enjoy over 50% OFF Set Menus:
Lunch: 4-course set at $25 (U.P. $55) | 5-course set at $35 (U.P. $88)
Dinner: 5-course set at $35 (U.P. $88) | 6-course set at $50 (U.P. $158)

Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒) combines Chinese tradition with European finesse, bringing a touch of flair and imagination. Chef Ethan Lee's creations showcase an adventurous yet thoughtful approach, offering a refreshing perspective to contemporary Chinese dining in Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Restaurant Cougar Lee (錦軒)
61 Tras Street
Singapore 079000
Tel: +65 81624965
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Asador Singapore @ Joo Chiat Road - Wood-Fried Spanish Flavours in the Neighbourhood

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Tucked away in the heritage-rich enclave of Joo Chiat, Asador Singapore brings the soulful flavours of Basque-style cooking to the East with its wood-fired Spanish grill concept. Set in a cosy yet refined semi-casual setting, the restaurant’s warm neighbourhood vibe, attentive service, and authentic Spanish fare make it a gem perfect for both date nights and friendly gatherings.

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Jamon Iberico 4.2/5

We started our evening with a serving of Jamon Ibérico, carved tableside from a 100% acorn-fed whole ham leg. The thin slivers of ham were served with pan de cristal and grated tomato, offering a delightful balance of savoury richness and freshness. The quality and ritual of hand-carving echoed fond memories of Spain, bringing a slice of its culinary tradition to our table.

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Anchoas 4/5

Next, we had the Anchoas, featuring premium "00" anchovies from Santoña laid delicately atop toast. These prized fillets, which are thick, meaty, and packed with umami, strike a delicate balance between saltiness and subtle sweetness. Best enjoyed on toast to temper the intensity, this dish was both simple and luxurious.

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Tomate 4.2/5

The Tomate dish showcased a beautiful medley of grilled tomatoes, dressed in dry-aged beef fat, and accompanied by a pool of ajo blanco —a creamy, cold soup often described as a white gazpacho. The sweetness of the tomatoes harmonised with the richness of the dressing and the refreshing ajo blanco, creating an elegant and well-balanced plate.

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Col 4.5/5

A standout vegetable dish came in the form of Col, featuring grilled Hispi cabbage with anchovy-garlic dressing and topped with fried kale. The cabbage's natural sweetness, accentuated by charring, was elevated by the umami-laden dressing. The crispy kale added a delightful textural contrast, making this a dish greater than the sum of its parts.

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Chipirones 4.2/5

The Chipirones, or baby squid, were charcoal-grilled and stuffed with chorizo, then served atop a vibrant mojo verde. Perfectly grilled to a bouncy tenderness, the squid was smoky and juicy, while the chorizo stuffing delivered a spicy, savoury punch. The garlicky green sauce added a fresh and herbaceous finish.

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Sereto Iberico 4.5/5

From the wood-fired grill came the Secreto Ibérico, a prized cut of pork shoulder known for its marbling and tenderness. Grilled to perfection and paired with mojo picón, a bold, smoky red pepper sauce, the meat was exceptionally juicy. It was so tender it could be mistaken for beef. It was a clear highlight of the night.


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Tarta de Queso 'La Vina' 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, we indulged in the Tarta de Queso 'La Viña', a tribute to the iconic Basque burnt cheesecake. With its caramelised top and creamy, almost molten centre, the dessert was indulgent without being heavy. It was a perfect finale to the meal.

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Asador Singapore offers an elevated yet approachable Spanish dining experience in the East, featuring dishes that remain true to their roots while incorporating finesse. Whether you're a fan of smoky grilled meats or looking to explore refined Spanish classics, this is one spot that promises to impress.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Asador Singapore
51 Joo Chiat Place
Singapore 427775
Tel: +65 9836 1792
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 530pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 2pm, 530pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 33. Alight 5 stops later. Walk across the open-air carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk down Geylang Road. Walk to Joo Chiat Road. Turn right onto Joo Chiat Road. Walk down Joo Chiat Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]