Kaarla Wood-Fire Grill and Bar @ CapitaSpring - Pivoted From Fine Dining to Casual Australian-Japanese Restaurant

Formerly a fine dining concept, Kaarla at 1-Arden CapitaSpring has transitioned into a casual Australian-Japanese restaurant that offers a welcoming space for communal dining over wood-fire sharing plates and classic cocktails. Diners can also look forward to regular live entertainment for a chillout evening. Despite this pivot, Kaarla continues its commitment to sustainable dining by using ethically sourced ingredients from artisanal producers and local farms, incorporating over 158 species of edible greens, herbs, and flowers from its 10,000 sq-ft urban farm.

Yuzu Shoyu Salmon Skewers 4/5

Deep-Fried Lotus Root Chips 4/5

Parker Brioche 4/5

Instead of courses and a la carte dishes, the menu is now categorised into more affordably-priced sharing plates suitable for communal dining or after-work drinking sessions. To start the evening, we enjoyed some bar snacks, including crisped Deep-Fried Lotus Root Chips ($12), which were moreish with sweet-savoury furikake and dashi honey. The Parker Brioche ($10) with shio kombu butter added extra butteriness, and the Yuzu Shoyu Salmon Skewers ($15) satisfied with their fatty texture and smoky umami flavour.

Burrata 3/5

Coal Roasted Tiger Prawns 2.8/5

We tried the Coal Roasted Tiger Prawns ($22) and Burrata ($14) from the small plates. The burrata was lusciously soft and pillowy, complemented by a contrasting garlicky goma sauce. However, I couldn't help wondering what happened to the other half of the burrata. The prawns had good flavours imparted from sansho pepper and a tangy native tamarind jam, but they weren't as succulent as expected.

Natural Pork Loin 4.5/5

John Dory 2.5/5

For mains, the Natural Pork Loin ($36) was excellently done over a wood fire, served pink-tender over a bed of braised barley and garden vegetables from the farm. However, the John Dory ($46) fell short with a rubbery texture.

Wood Roasted Pumpkin 5/5

The Wood Roasted Pumpkin ($14) was a highlight for me. Slow-roasted, it had a dense and starchy texture, with a sweetness aptly contrasted by sharp goat's feta cheese and an umami miso glaze made from its own seeds, ground and mixed with miso. Atop the feta cheese was a handful of watercress from its farm, which surprised me with a refreshing, crunchy texture.

Cherry Ripe 4.5/5

Rounding off our meal was a divine Cherry Ripe ($18), featuring a classic combination of tart cherries and bitter dark chocolate ganache, brought together by a creamy coconut fudge.

Garden Fizz, Old Fashioned Kaarla

Alongside the revamped menu, the drinks selection has been refined to a concise selection of four signatures (all at $22), maximising house-grown herbs and kitchen ingredients. The Garden Fizz is a citrusy drink accented with rosemary, while the Old Fashioned Kaarla exudes a much bolder flavour, concocted with Australian bush tomatoes muddled with bourbon to give a slight caramel hint.

For the upcoming National Day, Kaarla is also one of the best options to catch the fireworks:

* Indulge in a 5-Course National Day Dinner priced at $168++ per person. (Available on July 27th, August 3rd, and 9th)
* Raise a Toast with Free-Flow Alcohol for $59++ per person on August 9th, from 6-8PM
* Join the Skyline Sparkle Party every Saturday from June 22nd to August 9th, Tickets are $30 nett per person and include one drink (choice of soft drink, juice, beer, housepour spirits, or wines).

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.


Kaarla Wood-Fire Grill & Bar
CapitaSpring
88 Market Street
#51-02
Singapore 048948
Tel: +65 8518 3763
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon- Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 11pm
Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to Malacca Street. Walk down Malacca Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Morsels @ Dempsey Hill - Chef Petrina Launches new Menu 3.0 showcasing Skilful Blend of Eastern and Western Influences

I recently returned to Morsels to experience its new Menu 3.0. The innovative new creations will delight fans of Chef Petrina's cooking style, which seamlessly incorporates East and West influences with fermented sauces.

Aka Ebi Tartare 4.2/5

We started our dinner with the Aka Ebi Tartare ($18). The red shrimp is tossed in a mixture of green grape raisin and raspberry gochujang, paired with a crispy nori cracker. This dish offers a multi-textural enjoyment, with each bite bursting with vibrant flavours.

Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio 4.2/5

Next up was the Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio ($28). Light, bright, and vibrant, the scallops are tossed in aguachile and paired with a smooth cannellini bean puree, making for a refreshing and delightful appetiser.

Whipped Burrata 4/5

The Whipped Burrata ($22) comes with glazed baby carrots, Brazil nuts, and a kale salad. The burrata is creamy and luxurious, while the glazed baby carrots add a nice sweetness and crunch. The fresh kale provides a crunchy bite, making this dish a well-balanced starter.

Duck Dumplings 4/5

We then had the Duck Dumplings ($30), served in brodo stock, paired with fermented garlic mash, and finished with juniper kombu oil. The dumplings were flavourful and satisfying, and the brodo added depth to the dish.

Galician Octopus 3/5

The Galician Octopus ($42) is grilled to a perfect char, resulting in a tender and bouncy texture. It comes with farfalle pasta tossed in squid ink assam sauce. While each component is delightful on its own, the combination did not quite gel together for me.

Mangalica Pork Loin 4.5/5

For the mains, we had the Mangalica Pork Loin ($44). The clean-tasting pork was tender and succulent. However, the accompanying pulled pork tortellini felt a bit unnecessary, with the skin being slightly dry from sitting too long. It seemed the chef wanted to showcase different ways to enjoy the beautiful pork or offer a replacement for the usual carbs like mash and fries.

BVP Quail 5/5

The BVP Quail ($50) was a standout dish. I thoroughly enjoyed the rub, which gave the tender quail a delicious flavour coat. It was paired with smoked corn miso cream and lacto-fermented baby corn, adding complexity to the dish.

Morsels Signature Milo Tiramiso 5/5

We ended our meal with a must-try dessert, Morsels Signature Milo Tiramiso ($17). This unique take on the classic tiramisu incorporates Saratoga dark rum and shiro miso for a deliciously sweet ending that left us thoroughly satisfied.

Morsels' new Menu 3.0 continues to impress with its creative and flavourful dishes. Highlights include the Aka Ebi Tartare, Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio, Mangalica Pork Loin, BVP Quail, and the delightful Milo Tiramiso. Chef Petrina's skilful blend of Eastern and Western influences and her innovative use of fermented sauces make dining at Morsels a memorable experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Morsels
25 Dempsey Road
#01-04
Singapore 249670
Tel: +65 62663822
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sun: 1130am - 3pm
(Closed on Sun dinner and Mon Full Day)

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Opposite Botanic Gardens (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 and 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the flight of stairs up to Dempsey Hill. At Dempsey Road, turn left and walk to the open-air carpark in front of block 25. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

L'antica Pizzeria da Michele @ Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre - First Pizzeria in Singapore to offer Handcrafted Wagon Wheel Pizza

The legendary L'antica Pizzeria da Michele from Naples, Italy, has finally opened its doors in Singapore. It is located at Club Street on the outer skirts of ICON Mercure City Centre Singapore. This marks its first Southeast Asia outpost, bringing with it a time-honoured recipe from one of the world's oldest and most revered pizzerias.

Gambero Rosso Di Mazara 4.2/5

While L'antica Pizzeria da Michele is undoubtedly a haven for pizza lovers, the menu extends beyond pizzas with a selection of starters, handmade pasta, and delectable desserts. We began our meal with the Gambero Rosso Di Mazara ($38), a dish that showcases the natural sweetness of wild red Mediterranean shrimp dressed in a touch of extra virgin olive oil. The simplicity allows the shrimp's flavours to shine.

Burrata Alla Puttanesca 4.2/5

Next, we savoured the Burrata Alla Puttanesca ($26). This dish features creamy burrata paired with a vibrant mix of Leccino olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and Cetara anchovies. Though simple, the combination comes together beautifully, creating a harmony of flavours that delights the palate.

Fritto Di Mare 4.2/5

Perfect for sharing, the Fritto Di Mare ($26) comprises a basket of calamari, prawns, Amalfi coast fin fish, and zucchini, all coated in a thin, crispy batter. Each piece is perfectly fried, offering a delightful crunch and succulent seafood flavours.

Friarielli & Salsiccia 4/5

Moving to the star of the restaurant — its pizzas! For the white-based pizzas, we had the Friarielli & Salsiccia ($36). This pizza is topped with salty pecorino Romano DOP, Italian sausage, and friarielli napoletani, a unique leafy Italian cruciferous vegetable also known as broccoli rabe. This vegetable imparts a slight bitterness and nuttiness, almost reminiscent of our local Mei Cai Kou Rou, creating a unique and delicious combination.

Truffle Porcini 4.2/5

Another white-based pizza we tried was the Truffle Porcini ($40). This aromatic pizza is topped with Agerola fior di latte, porcini mushrooms, truffle pate, and Parmigiano Reggiano. The blend of truffle, mushrooms, and cheese creates an explosion of flavours that come together harmoniously.

Cetara 4.5/5

The Cetara ($34) is a flavourful choice for a red-based pizza. It features briny Cetara anchovies alongside pecorino Romano DOP, Leccino olives, and capers, harmonising beautifully with the creamy Agerola Fior di Latte and tomato base.

Margherita 4.2/5

The Margherita ($28) is a perfect choice for those who prefer a classic option. Topped with pecorino Romano DOP, Agerola fior di latte, and fresh basil on a tomato base, it offers a timeless and comforting flavour profile.

Orecchiette alla Positanese 4.2/5

Beyond pizzas, L'antica Pizzeria da Michele offers an equally remarkable variety of handmade pasta. We enjoyed the Orecchiette alla Positanese ($34), featuring tender ear-shaped orecchiette pasta cooked with Italian sausage, cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano. The pasta's shape acts like a sauce vessel, making each bite burst with flavours.

Ragu Della Portiera 4.2/5

We also tried the Ragu Della Portiera ($36), which uses the same ear-shaped orecchiette pasta. This dish includes cuts of beef chuck, pork ribs, and Italian sausage slow-cooked to create a hearty and flavourful ragù. It is robust in flavour, offering a more intense experience than the Orecchiette alla Positanese.

Cannoli 4/5

We ended our meal with the Cannoli ($16), a classic Sicilian dessert featuring deep-fried crisp, tube-shaped shells filled with a ricotta-based filling. This dessert is both toothsome and delightful, providing a sweet and satisfying conclusion to our dinner.

L'antica Pizzeria da Michele brings a slice of Naples to Singapore with its authentic pizzas and a variety of delicious Italian dishes. Whether you're a pizza enthusiast or a lover of Italian cuisine, this new establishment on Club Street is a must-visit destination.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


L'antica Pizzeria da Michele
Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
8 Club Street
#01-08
Singapore 069472
Tel: +65 9823 5724
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria @ Clarke Quay - Inviting Patrons to an Unique Dining Experience Reviving the Golden Era of Supper Clubs

Located in the heart of Clarke Quay, IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria is a stylish addition to the vibrant dining scene. This Neapolitan-style pizzeria and bar concept is helmed by renowned Naples-born chef Ciro Sorrentino, whose pizzeria Magherí in Italy earned a spot in the 50 Top Pizzeria Eccellente Italia in both 2022 and 2023. His restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City was also recognised in the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2024 award. The supper club aims to bring the authentic flavours and ambience of a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria to Singapore, promising an exceptional dining experience.

Regina Magheri 4.5/5

What sets Neapolitan pizzas apart is their very thin base and a light, airy crust that puffs up around the edges. Neapolitan pizzas focus on the simplicity and freshness of the toppings, typically using San Marzano tomatoes and either Fior di latte or mozzarella di Bufala. The Regina Magherí ($32) is a testament to this tradition, featuring San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh buffalo cheese, pesto sauce, oregano, tomatoes pacchetelle, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. The combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients makes this pizza a must-try.

6 Cheese and Honey Pizza 4.5/5

Another standout is the 6 Cheese and Honey Pizza ($55), which includes mascarpone cheese, fior di latte, smoked provolone cheese, pecorino cheese, gorgonzola mousse, and parmesan chips, drizzled with truffle acacia honey. This pizza offers a luxurious, creamy, and sweet experience. While the taste is exceptional, the price might be steep for some.

Wagyu Beef Cube Skewer 4/5

The Wagyu Beef Cube Skewer ($39), served with parsley salad, tuna sauce, and capers, was our first small plate. Though the beef cubes were slightly dry, the accompanying sauce was outstanding, making us wish for some bread to mop it up.

Burrata Tomato Agrodolce 4/5

Next, we enjoyed the Burrata Tomato Agrodolce ($22), featuring a delicious ball of burrata paired with marinated peeled cherry tomatoes and gremolata oil. The creamy burrata and sweet tomatoes were a delightful combination, whetting our appetites for more.

Roasted Eggplant 3.8/5

We also sampled the Roasted Eggplant ($18), which was appetising when combined with whipped feta cream and candied chilli sauce, enhancing the dish's overall flavour profile.

Smoked Eel and Japanese Scallop 3.8/5

The Smoked Eel and Japanese Scallop ($26), served with capers, green olives, and dill, was light and clean-tasting. The moist, smoky eel and plump, sweet scallop created a harmonious pairing.

Sicilian Grilled Squid 3.5/5

Among the large plates we shared was the Sicilian Grilled Squid ($32), stuffed with saffron risotto and served with a chorizo peperonata sauce. While the bright chorizo sauce was delightful, the stuffed risotto's mushy texture was less enjoyable.

Antarctic Cod Fish 4/5

The other large plate, Antarctic Cod Fish ($46), was pan-seared and accompanied by apple onion relish, charcoal-smoked cauliflower purée, and pistachio crush. The simple execution highlighted the fish's freshness and buttery texture, cooked to perfection.

Gelato Cremoso 4.2/5

We had the Gelato Cremoso ($16), a unique champagne vanilla gelato with mascarpone cheese, honeycomb, and cookie crumbs for dessert. This refreshing and well-balanced dessert provided the perfect sweet ending to our meal.

Whether you're in the mood for excellent pizzas or seeking a new date night spot with a touch of glamour, IL Clay Supper Club is a great option. Personally, I would visit the place primarily for their pizzas and might skip the other items. Please note that pizzas are available for indoor dining only, daily from 12 PM to 6 PM, with the last order at 5 PM.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


IL Clay Supper Club & Pizzeria
Clarke Quay
3D River Valley Road
#01-04
Singapore 179023
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the river. Turn left and walk down the river towards the bridge. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right onto River Valley Road Walk down River Valley Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Mosella @ Pan Pacific Orchard - Savour the Bold Flavours of The Mediterranean in an Unforgettable Brunch Experience

Mosella at Pan Pacific Orchard, located within the luxurious confines of Pan Pacific Orchard, recently launched its Saturday Brunch. This exquisite dining experience celebrates the diverse and rich cuisine of the region. Nestled amidst the lush ambience of Pan Pacific Orchard, this brunch affair promises an indulgent spread, live jazz music, and unparalleled hospitality.

48 Months Iberico Ham

Spanish Crystal Bread Tomato

Burrata & Heirloom Tomatoes

The brunch experience kicks off with a selection of signature appetisers served tableside. Among the highlights is the 48 Months Iberico Ham paired with Spanish Crystal Bread spread, evoking fond memories of Spanish adventures with each bite. The Burrata & Heirloom Tomatoes delight with their creamy texture and vibrant flavours, complemented by arugula, fennel compote, and candied walnuts drizzled in basil oil and balsamic vinegar.

Hamachi Tiradito

Amelie Fine de Claire Oyster N3

For seafood enthusiasts, the Hamachi Tiradito presents Japanese yellowtail lightly flavoured in a refreshing mandarin & truffle ponzu sauce, garnished with crispy quinoa and garlic chips. Meanwhile, the Amelie Fine de Claire Oyster N3 offers a delightful briny indulgence, elevated with bloody Mary foam and wafu sauce.

Chicken Siew Mai

Prawn Har Gow

After relishing the four delectable appetisers served tableside, I eagerly made my way to the expansive buffet spread. My first stop? The dim sum section, where tempting offerings awaited. Among the array of choices, the Siew Mai and Har Gow stood out as timeless classics. The Siew Mai, with its succulent filling encased in a thin, translucent wrapper, offered a delightful balance of savoury flavours. Meanwhile, the Har Gow, showcasing plump shrimp enveloped in a delicate yet resilient casing, provided a burst of freshness with every bite.

Grilled Catch of The Day

The Grill section at Mosella's Saturday Brunch is an absolute must-visit for any discerning food enthusiast. Here, culinary delights are expertly crafted and fired to perfection on the Josper Grill, promising a symphony of flavours and textures that are sure to tantalise the taste buds. Among the array of offerings, the Grilled Catch of The Day takes centre stage, showcasing the freshest seafood expertly cooked over the open flame. Each bite reveals a succulent and perfectly grilled fillet, bursting with the natural flavours of the ocean. The Cochinillo - Spanish Suckling Pig, is a true delight for those craving a taste of Spain — tender and flavourful, with a crispy skin that crackles with each bite.

Cochinillo - Spanish Suckling Pig

Grilled Chicken Thigh Skewer, New Zealand Lamb Chop

Not to be overlooked are the Grilled Chicken Thigh Skewer and New Zealand Lamb Chop, each offering its own unique flavour profiles and textures. Whether you're a fan of tender, succulent chicken or prefer the robust flavour of lamb, these dishes are sure to satisfy you.

Salmon Wellington

Black Angus Beef Tenderloin

For meat lovers seeking the pinnacle of indulgence, the carving station at Mosella's Saturday Brunch beckons with its tantalising offerings of Salmon Wellington and Black Angus Beef Tenderloin. It promises a feast of unparalleled enjoyment, crafted with precision and finesse to delight even the most discerning palates. The Salmon Wellington is true artistry, whereby succulent salmon fillets are enveloped in a flaky puff pastry crust, creating a symphony of textures with each bite. The richness of the salmon is complemented by the buttery pastry, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. Meanwhile, the Black Angus Beef Tenderloin takes centre stage as the epitome of indulgence. This premium cut of beef is renowned for its exceptional tenderness and flavour, and at Mosella, it is expertly prepared to perfection. Each slice reveals a juicy and succulent interior, bursting with the rich flavours of perfectly grilled beef.

Kashmiri Lamb Ragon Josh, Palak Paneer, Mee Goreng Mamak

The Indian section beckons with an array of aromatic and flavorful delights that transport diners to the vibrant streets of India. From hearty curries to tantalising grilled meats, each dish is a celebration of rich spices and bold flavours that promise to tantalise the taste buds and evoke a sense of culinary bliss. One standout dish from the Indian section is the Kashmiri Lamb Rogan Josh, a classic North Indian curry known for its robust flavours and tender meat. Slow-cooked to perfection, the succulent lamb melts in the mouth while the fragrant spices infuse every bite with warmth and depth of flavour. The Palak Paneer offers a delightful combination of creamy spinach and soft, homemade paneer cheese for vegetarians. The dish is a true comfort food, with the earthy flavours of spinach complementing the subtle tanginess of the paneer, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. Lastly, the Mee Goreng Mamak offered a tantalising fusion of Indian and Malay flavours, with stir-fried noodles tossed in a fragrant spice blend and served with a medley of fresh vegetables and succulent pieces of meat. Each bite is a symphony of flavours, with hints of spice and sweetness dancing on the palate.

The pasta section stands out as a beloved station among diners. It offers a delightful array of freshly prepared pasta dishes cooked to order, ensuring optimal freshness and flavour in every bite. With an enticing selection of pasta varieties and accompanying sauces, this station promises a plate of deliciousness that caters to every palate.

From delicate pastries to decadent chocolates, the dessert spread at Mosella's Saturday Brunch offers something for every palate. Guests can delight in a tempting selection of cakes, tarts, and confections, each lovingly crafted by skilled pastry chefs using only the finest ingredients. Whether you prefer rich and indulgent chocolate desserts or light and refreshing fruit-based treats, there will surely be something to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Available every Saturday from 12pm to 3pm, the Mosella Saturday Brunch is priced at $108 per adult and $54 per child aged 8-12 years old. From appetising crudo to premium cuts expertly seasoned and finished over charcoal fire, Mosella invites you to savour the bold flavours of the Mediterranean in an unforgettable brunch experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mosella
Pan Pacific Orchard
10 Claymore Road
Singapore 229540
Tel: +65 6991 6875
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sat Brunch: 12pm - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Palais Renaissance which is right after Royal Thai Embassy. Cut through Palais Renaissance to the other side of the building. Pan Pacific Orchard is opposite the building. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]