White Marble @ Orchard Rendezvous Hotel - Chef Otto Weibei's Loving Tribute To The Mediterranean

The newly opened White Marble restaurant at Orchard Rendezvous Hotel is a Mediterranean grill concept by Chef Otto Weibel, Singapore's grand doyen of Western gastronomy. The restaurant brings together the timeless flavours of the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. And in line with Chef Otto’s philosophy, dishes are prepared with fresh quality produce, using simple techniques that showcase the natural flavours at their vibrant best.

Roasted Butternut Squash 4.2/5

Our dinner started with the Roasted Butternut Squash ($12++). The sweetness of the butternut squash is paired with chilli yoghurt and coriander salsa. It comes with a hint of spiciness from the chilli oil drizzled over the dish, finished with toasted sunflower seeds and seasonal herbs.

Octopus 4/5

Following that, we have the Octopus ($36++). The charcoal-grilled Spanish octopus rests atop crispy potato and garlic cream. Pistachio crumbs are added for extra texture, while the chilli oil spiced up the taste profile.

Fattouche 3/5

Mezze Plate 3.5/5

The Mezze Plate ($34++) and Fattouche ($12++) are good for sharing. The platter comprises falafel, tabbouleh with quinoa, fattouche, eggplant moutabal, hummus, chicken skewers, and grilled pita. The platter draws inspiration from Chef Otto's trip to the Middle East, featuring dishes in the region such as Dubai, Lebaron and Egypt. A healthy take from the region is the Fattouche, a classic Levantine crunchy salad dressed in a refreshing lemon dressing.

Chicken Leg Bone-in Tagine 4.5/5

Great to go with a plate of rice is the Chicken Leg Bone-in Tagine ($60++). The whole chicken leg is marinated with shawarma spice for a day, grilled and cooked with red onions in a tagine. It is a classic Moroccan stew held together by a delicious tomato sauce brightened with dates and preserved lemon.

Prawn Bucatini Puttanesca $28++

My favourite dish for the night is the Prawn Bucatini Puttanesca ($28++). I love the pasta texture cooked in a classic Italian recipe with olive oil, mixed olives, tomatoes, capers and anchovies. It seems that many things were going on, but they came together harmoniously for a delicious finishing.

Seafood and Australian Lamb Skewer 4/5

Not to be missed at White Marble is the charcoal-grilled Seafood Skewer ($38++ per skewer) and Australian Lamb Skewer ($48++ per skewer). The seafood skewer consists of octopus, white fish, prawns, and assorted vegetables. I prefer the Australian lamb skewer marinated in chermoula. It was juicy and tender. Three different sauces - lemon garlic cream, harissa aioli, and salbitxada are served to enjoy the seafood and meat.

Crema Catalana 4.2/5

Unlike creme brulee, the difference is that Crema Catalana ($16++) is thickened with milk and cornstarch instead of cream. Freshly squeezed orange juice is added, zesting up the flavour profile. It is topped with torched orange segments, freeze-dried tangerines, candied orange peels and mint leaves.

Fig & Almond 4/5

Another classic Spanish dessert is the Fig & Almond ($16++), a cold-pressed olive oil cake baked with fresh figs. It is paired with almond crumble for crunch and yoghurt ice cream for a sweet ending.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


White Marble
Orchard Rendezvous Hotel
1 Tanglin Road
#01-09
Singapore 247905
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Nearest: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 1030pm

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. Walk down Orchard Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Garden At One-Ninety @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore - Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann

Nicolai Bergmann, celebrity florist and Floral Art Director at Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, collaborates with Garden@One-Ninety and presents a Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann. Renowned for his unique style that blends Scandinavian and Japanese design, be enthralled by his sophisticated floral arrangements as you delight your taste buds with botanical-inspired sweets and floral-inspired craft cocktails.

Botanical-inspired Sweets

Surrounded by a hand-arranged wreath of fresh flowers, the Afternoon Tea set features a medley of botanical-inspired sweets crafted by Pastry Chef Audrey Yee - Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux, Osmanthus-Peach Puff, Elderflower-Lemon Panna Cotta, Yuzu-Matcha Cake, Manjari Nama Chocolate Truffle and Violet Macaron.

Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux

I find the Pu-Er Tea-infused Mandarin Crémeux really adorable. Encased at its core is a sweet, tangy mandarin jam, which balances the sweetness of the cremeux. Another of my favourite is the bitter-sweet Manjari Nama Chocolate Truffle.

Savoury Collection

Scottish Smoked Salmon served in Mini Brioche

The savoury collection was delicious, with a handcrafted selection of sandwiches. I like the luscious Scottish Smoked Salmon served in Mini Brioche, and the other vegetarian-friendly ones fared just as well, such as the Truffle and Portobello Mushroom and Tomato and Green Olive on Wholemeal.

Vanilla and Blackcurrant Scones

Halfway through the bites, you will have freshly baked Vanilla and Blackcurrant Scones served to you, accompanied by homemade Lemon Balm Curd, Strawberry-Rose Preserve and Devonshire Clotted Cream.

Floral-inspired Craft Cocktails

Complete the experience with floral-inspired craft cocktails by Bar Manager Gabriel Carlos and Head Bartender Sophia Kang. Served in exquisite glass teapots, you may try the floral gin-forward Hanami or a whisky-based Apple Blossom.

Floral Weekend Afternoon Tea by Nicolai Bergmann ($68/pax) with a choice of craft cocktails and a choice of tea or freshly brewed coffee. Available on weekends from now till June 2022, served from 2pm to 5pm.

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.


Garden@One-Ninety
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight down Orchard Boulevard Road. Walk to destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Tapas 24 @ Robertson Quay - A Special Menu Welcoming Founder Chef Carles Abellan To Singapore

Since its opening in May 2021, Tapas 24 at Robertson Quay, Singapore, has received raving reviews. Tapas 24 is a Barcelonian concept that offers Spanish ingredients in traditional tapas with a twist. Chef Carles Abellan founds it with the original outlet located a stone's throw from Passeig de Gracia, a prime shopping and business area in Barcelona, Spain. Tapas 24 Robertson Quay has put together an exclusive limited-edition menu of new creations from 17 February to 27 February 2022 to celebrate Chef Carles Abellan's long-waited trip from Barcelona to Singapore.

King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa 4.5/5

The luxe version of the King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa is topped with egg yolk, tobiko and miso mayonnaise. I have not eaten anything like it before. It reminds me of our Chinese Sai Pang Xie (Stir Fry Egg White) but an elevated Western version.

McFoie Burger 5/5

This is the only place you can have the McFoie Burger in Singapore, one of the signature dishes that brought Tapas 24 to fame in Barcelona. Unfortunately, it is no longer served in Spain. The Foie patty sandwiched between grilled, soft brioche buns is served with foie gras mousse on the side. Spread the foie gras mousse onto the burger for a hot and cold, umami enjoyment.

Squid Ink Paella 3.8/5

I felt the Squid Ink Paella with slivers of cuttlefish was a bit heavy-handed for it. Though so, the Spanish saffron rice infused with squid ink is deliciously flavourful coupled with delightful bites.

Truffle Spanish Tortilla 4.8/5

Another favourite item on Chef Carles's special menu is the Truffle Spanish Tortilla. I had the potato and egg omelette in Spain but not this version with a molten interior accentuated by the truffle's earthiness. It is hearty and comforting, and most important, deliciously good.

Churros 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Churros and Chocolate Cake. My eyes brightened when I saw the churros because they are the thin and airy type I like. It is accompanied by three different dipping sauces - Chocolate, Coffee Toffee, and Mango & Passionfruit. For the chocolate lover, you will love the chocolatey richness.

Chocolate Cake 4/5

In light of Chef Carles’ visit, the restaurant will also present a carte of exclusive ‘Carles Abellán Specials’ (17 to 27 February 2022) and 3-day only (25 February, Friday, 6pm; 26 February, Saturday, 12pm and 6pm; and 27 February, Sunday, 12pm) lunch and dinner set menus that unabashedly showcase the Chef’s inimitable personality. Reservations are for a minimum of two persons and maximum of five and may be made online at https://www.tapas24.sg/ under Reservations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tapas 24
60 Robertson Quay
#01-04
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 65136810
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite State Courts (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite UE Square (Stop ID 04329). Take bus 64 or 123. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave to the river. Turn right and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

The Bravery @ Amoy Street - Muslim-owned Cafe Reopens at New Location with Refreshed Brunch Menu

The Bravery has moved from Lavender Street, where it has stood for seven years to, a two-storey conservation shophouse along the trendy Amoy Street neighbourhood. The second storey also houses The Bravery’s in-house bakery, which churns out fresh bread and baked goods daily. With a full-service team led by Sous Chef Melvin Lam and award-winning Head Barista Maryvn Tan, customers can expect an elevated menu comprising new dishes, crowd-pleasing signatures, freshly-baked treats and quality brews.

Nova Cheese Toast 4/5

From the brunch menu, we had the Nova Cheese Toast ($16), where lemon and dill cream cheese is spread on house-baked sourdough bread and topped generously with smoked salmon, ikura, and microgreens. The side of silky smooth scrambled eggs was a welcoming addition to this classic brunch dish.

Steak & Eggs 4.2/5

The crowd-favourite Steak & Eggs ($23) was no less impressive as well, with tender grass-fed striploin served with a side of house-baked sourdough toast and sunny side eggs.

Cod en Papillote 3.5/5

The Cod en Papillote ($33) features cod fillet is baked in a paper bag with fennel, seasonal greens, herbs, microgreens, and soy broth to keep the fish tender and moist. It is served with a bowl of furikake-topped rice to complement the fish.

Seafood Alfredo 3.8/5

A dish with an umami punch is the Seafood Alfredo ($20). The creamy al dente spaghetti is complete with Tiger prawn, white clams, crab meat, ikura, and a crustacean oil made in-house by infusing roasted shellfish into olive oil.

Hojicha Milk 4/5, Dirty Matcha 4/5

The Bravery serves up signatures like the ever-popular Lavender Latte ($6.50) along with new offerings such as Hojicha Milk ($6.50) and Dirty Matcha ($7). Using beans from Allpress Espresso in Melbourne, which boasts of rich, chocolate notes with a full-bodied flavour, each cup of joe makes for the ideal morning or midday pick-me-up.

Gateau au Chocolat 4/5

We round off our meal on a sweet note with their variety of desserts. Available all day, the bakery churns out a wide range of bread, cakes and pastries, such as the crowd-pleasing Gateau au Chocolat ($6.90 per slice) filled with rich chocolatey decadence.

Lemon Meringue Pie 4/5

The Lemon Meringue Pie is enjoyable as well, with a lightly torched meringue atop, soft, tangy curd and crumbly base.

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.


The Bravery
50 Amoy St
Singapore 069876
Tel: +65 93882973
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 8am - 6pm
Fri-Sun: 8am - 9pm
(Closed on Mon)

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 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 destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Lawry’s The Prime Rib Singapore @ Mandarin Gallery - Celebrate Love And Romance This Valentine’s Day With Exclusive 7-Course Menu

Impress your loved ones with an exceptional dining experience at Lawry’s The Prime Rib, as they have created a magnificent 7-course menu to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Available only on 14 February 2021 (for dinner at 4pm onwards), it is priced at $189 per pax and includes a special bottle of Piccini Prosecco, with a pronounced aroma of wisteria in bloom and acacia flower, for takeaway with every pair of set menus enjoyed.

Jumbo Shrimp 3.8/5

We were greeted upon arrival with an amuse-bouche of tender Jumbo Shrimp with a sweet-tangy homemade salsa sauce.

Japanese Octopus Salad 3.8/5

This is followed by a romantic orchard of Japanese Octopus Salad, which consists of grilled sliced pieces of Japanese octopus, beetroot puree and fresh fruits embedded in a young mesclun salad tossed with extra virgin oil, and drizzled with balsamic reduction.

Chicken Consommé 4/5

The Chicken Consommé features bacon-wrapped chicken pieces with mushroom cheese fillings in a clear, fragrant Chicken Consommé that is packed full of savoury flavours.

Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze 3.8/5

Next, we had the Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze. A sweet fruity combination of sliced peach, tomatoes and sliced mozzarella cheese, drizzled with balsamic reduction and extra virgin olive oil.

Palate Cleanser

We had the palate cleanser of tangy lime sorbet and limoncello before moving on to the mains.

Signature Roasted USDA Prime Rib of Beef 4.2/5

For each set menu, diners can choose between the Signature Roasted USDA Prime Rib of Beef or the Goose Foie Gras with Chicken Stew. For the former, it comes in a 150g of signature USDA Prime Rib of Beef that is carved and served with US Idaho mashed potatoes. Yorkshire pudding, whipped cream horseradish and a choice of creamed corn, creamed spinach or buttered peas.

Goose Foie Gras with Chicken Stew 4/5

An alternative main is the Goose Foie Gras with Chicken Stew, which features a soft and tender pan-seared goose foie gras with a savoury chicken stew, served with poached egg, seasonal vegetables and US Idaho mashed potatoes.

Strawberry Yuzu Mousse Sweetheart Cake 4.2/5, Red Velvet Valentine's Cake 4/5

Round off the course meal on a sweet note with the Strawberry Yuzu Mousse Sweetheart Cake - a decadent white chocolate strawberry mousse with a soft fruity yuzu coulis, and topped with pink chocolate glaze, or the Red Velvet Valentine's Cake, which is a lovely heart-shaped moist red velvet cake, lightly frosted with cream cheese filling.

Cupid's Arrow 4/5, Steady on the First Date 4/5

Add on to the evening of romance with an ala carte order of some sexy cocktail. The Cupid's Arrow and Steady on the First Date cocktails have been specially concocted for a real splash to the evening and to have you and your Valentine floating on cloud nine.

To indulge in a night of resplendent romance, tables are available for booking at 68363333 or reservations@lawrys.com.sg.

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.


Lawry's The Prime Rib Singapore
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#04-01/31
Singapore 238897
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Wed: 1130am - 10pm
Thu-Sat: 1130am - 1130pm
Sun: 1130am - 12am

Direction: 
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Dallas Restaurant & Bar @ Boat Quay - Western Favourites With A Local Twist To Celebrate Chinese New Year

Moving away from the typical Chinese New Year delicacies at Chinese restaurants, dive into the western culinary delights with a touch of Asian flavours at Dallas Restaurant & Bar. The enticing festive set menu comes with a selection of starters, mains and desserts in a 2 course ($28++) or 3 course meal ($36++).

Nestled along Boat Quay, the restaurant offers beautiful views of the Singapore cityscape, especially the balcony seats on the third floor where diners can sip on cocktails while enjoying the view.

Lychee Martini 4/5

Their Cocktail Of The Month, Lychee Martini ($12++) is made using the award-winning and super premium Laplandia Vodka from Finland. It has a pleasant fruity sweet taste, with a slight tart finish.

Black Pepper Calamari 4/5

We remembered our fondness for their signature salt & pepper calamari and were no less impressed with their Black Pepper Calamari, served with black pepper and curry leaf dipping sauce on the side. Perfectly soft and chewy, with a slight layer crisp on the outside, the accompanying black pepper sauce adds a subtle savoury sweet flavour to the calamari, without being too peppery.

Wagyu Cheeseburger Spring Rolls 3.8/5

The Wagyu Cheeseburger Spring Roll is our typical spring roll but given an ingenious western twist with flavourful wagyu cheeseburger fillings within the crispy rolls. While I would still enjoy a proper cheeseburger, this inventive combination is an interesting dish worth trying, served with a side of tomato and mustard dipping sauce for a tangy flavour.

Satay Chicken Skewers 4/5

A classic local fare. their Satay Chicken Skewers comes in larger portions, and the meat is much more tender and juicier than the usual satay.

Tom Yum Prawn Linguine 4.2/5

A surprisingly good combination where East meets West, I was blown away by how good the Tom Yum Prawn Linguine was. The linguine was cooked to a delectable consistency and doused in a spicy-sweet Tom Yum sauce. The result is a spicy, fiery and sweet dish that got us wiping the whole plate clean.

Steamed Barramundi with Ginger 3.8/5

The Steamed Barramundi with Ginger features a soft and fork-tender Barramundi over light and fluffy rice, and mixed Asian greens.

Prime Rib Steak 4.2/5

The restaurant's highlight is the Prime Rib Steak (250g), which is served with fries and salad. The thick slab of prime rib is slow-cooked to order and chargrilled, resulting in incredibly juicy and tender meat. You can choose to pair it with their Red Wine Jus, Black Pepper, Smokey BBQ and Wild Mushroom sauce.

Orange and Almond Cake 4/5

End your dining experience on a sweet note with the Orange and Almond Cake. Perfectly spongy and moist, the cake has a light zesty fragrance, great with double cream atop to balance the flavours.

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.


Dallas Restaurant and Bar
31 Boat Quay
Singapore 049820
Tel: +65 6532 2131
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk towards the river. Turn left and walk down the river bank. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]