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]

Oscar's @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - Best of Oscar's Dinner Buffet Featuring Local & International Flavours Under One Roof

Oscar's at Conrad Centennial Singapore is renowned for its abundant buffet offerings, emphasising quality ingredients and a diverse selection of dishes. The Best of Oscar's Dinner Buffet is no exception, bringing together a harmonious blend of local and international flavours that cater to all palates.

When you step into Oscar's, you're greeted with a warm and inviting ambience. The spacious, elegant dining area sets the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey. The attentive and courteous staff ensure that your dining experience is seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.

Fresh Prawns on Ice 4/5

The Ice Bar offers a variety of fresh seafood on ice, such as prawns, clams, mussels, slipper lobsters and two types of oysters.

Fresh Oysters 4/5

The buffet spread is a true feast for the senses. Highlights include Fresh Seafood On Ice, such as succulent oysters, prawns, slipper lobsters, clams and mussels, which are a delight for seafood lovers. We loved the sweetness of the fresh prawns; they were plump and crunchy, a testament to their quality. Oscar's offers two types of oysters from Ireland and Australia, and later in the evening, Japanese oysters made an appearance after the Australian ones ran out. The oysters from Ireland were very flavourful, while the Australian ones were plumper and juicier, each freshly shucked and placed on ice. The Slipper Lobsters were another standout, being sweet and meaty. Fresh salmon and tuna sashimi also added to the selection.

Compound Salad Bar 3.8/5

Oscar’s Signature Caesar Salad 4/5

We usually skip the buffet salad station, but the Compound Salad Bar at Oscar's was so enticing that we couldn't resist trying a few items. We were pleasantly surprised by how beautifully seasoned even the simplest dishes, like the zucchini salad, were. Another standout feature was the enormous cheese wheel used for making Caesar Salad. You can select your preferred ingredients, add them to the cheese wheel, and have them all mixed.

Cheese & Charcuterie 3.5/5

Oscar's Cheese & Charcuterie selection is a feast for the senses. You'll find an impressive array of cheeses, including Camembert, Comte, Port Salut, and Emmental, perfectly paired with an assortment of charcuterie like Prosciutto di Parma, Salami, and Mortadella. Complementing these are fresh grapes, assorted crackers, walnuts, almonds, cashews, olives, and two types of chutney. There's also a variety of breads available, inviting you to slice your own and enjoy the freshest experience possible.

Classic Western Mains 4/5

We were particularly impressed with the Classic Western Mains section, especially the Mac & Cheese. The dishes are kept on a hot plate, ensuring the food stays warm and sizzling. This attention to detail meant we still managed to enjoy a delightful cheese pull with the Mac & Cheese, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Local Flavours 3.5/5

If you have a penchant for Local Flavours, Oscar's will not disappoint. The buffet features an array of rice, noodles, and oriental dishes, complemented by various vegetables, seafood, and meats. Our favourite from this section was the Steamed Halibut with Sambal, perfectly cooked with spice.

Roasted Beef Sirloin 3.8/5

Salmon Wellington 3.8/5

The Live Station featured Roasted Beef Sirloin and Salmon Wellington. The beef was tender and juicy, with a robust, savoury flavour. However, our favourite was the Salmon Wellington, which had a unique twist with Otak hidden within the salmon, adding a delightful burst of flavour. Later in the evening, Truffle Roasted Chicken was brought out to replace the Salmon Wellington that had run out, but we found it a bit dry.

Noodle Bar

Laksa 4/5

The buffet extends to the restaurant's outdoor area, where you'll find a Noodle Bar offering a variety of options such as Signature Laksa, Prawn Noodle Soup, Fish Noodle Soup, and Wonton Noodle Soup. Our must-have is the laksa, which is creamy and bursting with flavour.

BBQ Zone

The BBQ Zone featured a range of local favourites, including Spicy Kecap Garlic Confit Beef Steak, Calamari, Yakitori Chicken Skewers, and Homemade Pork Sausage. The standout dishes for us were the beef steak and the pork sausage, which were flavourful, juicy and well-cooked. All ingredients are freshly grilled, simply tell them your table number and they will be served to you directly instead of having to wait at the station.

Flavours of India

In the Flavours of India section, the live tandoori station is a highlight, offering smoky-flavoured chicken chunks that are succulent and perfectly paired with freshly made naan. You can choose from a variety of naan options, such as Cheese or Butter, to complement your meal. Additionally, dishes like Butter Chicken and Palak Paneer are excellent choices to enjoy with the naan.

With so many tempting options, dessert is a must at Oscar's. Besides classics like Bread & Butter Pudding, Apple Crumble, freshly made Waffles, Chocolate Fountain, and Mövenpick Ice Cream, the small cakes and pastries are equally delightful. A standout is the Tiramisu, which boasts a melt-in-your-mouth, cloud-like texture and just the right amount of Kahlua for a perfect finish.

The buffet includes tea and Coffee, but if you are looking for an alternative drink for your dinner, Oscar's has a collection of local beverages such as Sugarcane with Lime, Bandung and Milo Dinosaur.

BEST OF OSCAR’S BUFFET DINNER
Time: 6:00pm to 10:00pm
Monday & Tuesday
Price: Adult: S$86++ | Child: S$43++ (6 – 12 years old)
Wednesday to Sunday
Price: Adult: S$96++ | Child: S$48++ (6 – 12 years old)

Dine Like A Member
As part of the ‘Dine Like A Member Program’, Hilton Honors members can enjoy up to 25 percent off and 500 bonus points when dining at Oscar's.

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


Oscar's
Conrad Centennial Hotel Singapore
2 Temasek Boulevard
Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 64327481
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking along Temasek Avenue to destination Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Jones The Grocer @ Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 2 - Cheese & Wine Nights with Free-Flow Fine Wines

Jones the Grocer recently opened a new outlet at the refurbished Changi Airport Terminal 2, offering travellers and locals a gourmet dining experience. One of the highlights of this new location is the Cheese & Wine Nights, held every Wednesday and Friday from 6 PM onwards. These evenings are a paradise for cheese lovers and wine enthusiasts, providing a curated selection of artisanal cheeses and a free-flowing variety of fine wines for two hours.

Cheese Platter 4/5

The Cheese Platter ($68, U.P. $88) for the Cheese & Wine Nights comprises a selection of unique cheeses: a robust blue, a rich hard cheese, and a creamy soft cheese. These are complemented with crisp crackers, seasonal fruits, and delightful jams, providing a balanced and indulgent experience.

Charcuterie Board 4/5

To elevate the experience, diners can add a Charcuterie Board for an additional $20. This board pairs beautifully with the cheese and wine, offering an array of cured meats that enhance the whole dining experience.

Cheese Croquettes 4/5

Those who RSVP via Chope with the promo code "JTG88" are in for a treat with a complimentary appetiser: Cheese Croquettes worth $16.90. These delightful bites are stuffed with chorizo, manchego, and mozzarella, encased in a crispy breadcrumb coat. The accompanying macadamia romesco sauce pairs excellently, adding a nutty and slightly tangy note.

Grilled Steak and Chargrilled Artichoke Salad 4/5

Beyond the cheese and wine offerings, Jones the Grocer's menu is diverse and appealing. The Grilled Steak and Chargrilled Artichoke Salad is a hearty option, priced at $25.90. This generous salad includes fresh ingredients like avocado, shallots, radishes, and mixed greens, all topped with a cumin and brown sugar-rubbed flank steak. The chargrilled artichokes add a lovely smoky flavour, making this dish both substantial and satisfying.

Tagliatelle with Braised Short Rib Ragout 4.2/5

The Tagliatelle with Braised Short Rib Ragout ($27.90) is a standout dish for pasta lovers. The tagliatelle is perfectly cooked, and the rich, flavoursome braised short rib ragout is complemented by crispy sage and parmesan. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, creating a delightful mouthful.

Italian Stallion 3.5/5

From their pizza menu, we tried the Italian Stallion ($29.90). This pizza is topped with green peppercorn salami, fior di latte, chilli peperonata, Persian feta, mint, and parsley. The thin, non-doughy crust was perfect for my taste, and the combination of toppings worked beautifully together, offering a spicy, creamy, and refreshing bite all at once.

Jones the Grocer at Changi Airport Terminal 2 has successfully blended gourmet dining with a relaxed, accessible atmosphere. The Cheese & Wine Nights are a particular highlight, offering great value and an enjoyable midweek indulgence. While some dishes shine more than others, the overall experience is satisfying and worth visiting. Whether you're a traveller passing through or a local looking for a new dining spot, Jones the Grocer delivers a delightful and varied menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. Keep an eye out for their menu revamp, promising even more exciting options in the future.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jones The Grocer
Singapore Changi Airport
Terminal 2 Departure Hall
#02-01
Singapore 819643
Tel: +65 9297 8851
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 24 hours

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Terminal 2 departure hall. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Salut Private Dining @ Grange Heights - A New Private Dining Concept By Chef Karl Dobler

Celebrate and entertain your friends and loved ones in this beautiful, intimate space. Welcome to Salut Private Dining, a new dining concept helmed by Karl and Jessica - one with excellent culinary skills, the other with impeccable taste.

Austrian Chef Karl Dobler's culinary repertoire spans from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury hotels across Europe and Australia. You might also remember him from Flutes Restaurant or then Restaurant Salut Private Dining in Dempsey. With great respect for classic flavours and culinary techniques, Chef Karl personally sources fresh seasonal ingredients and carefully prepares them. While contemporary European cuisine is his speciality, he is adept at Asian and Peranakan cooking and whips up a very popular Prawn Noodles. Meanwhile, Jessica works her magic to create the perfect ambience for your dinner event and can set the table for personalised themes. Tonight, we're enjoying a romantic candlelit table set with white roses and artfully strewn crystals.

As guests stream in, smartly dressed wait staff warmly welcome them with flutes of champagne and canapés of the most luxurious degree - smoked salmon with cream cheese & caviar, beef cheeks mini puffs and burrata & tomato mini toasts. Feel free to bring your own wines and spirits. There is no corkage charge. A generous policy!

A dish of Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio appears in front of us. It's delicately sliced and draped like a flower, drizzled with truffle soy dressing and some olive pearls.

As White Asparagus is in season, the Chef prepares it as a warm appetiser served with a soft hen egg, truffle hollandaise and bellota ham, which is the finest grade of Jamón ibérico with a smooth texture and a rich, savoury taste.

Next comes a pan-seared NZ Bass Grouper prepared with artichoke mash, edamame, and scampi glaze. The fish's flesh is firm, white, and flaky. Delicious!

We got to try the Chef's signature Crispy Roasted Suckling Pig, which had a crackling skin. It is served with smoked pancetta cabbage, rosemary potatoes, and star anise jus.

The dessert was well-timed. We caught an aromatic whiff of the soufflés baking as we were about to finish our main course. Out from the kitchen came those piping hot ramekins of Passionfruit Soufflé, baked with real fruit bits. It was delightfully melty and absolutely enjoyable.

We thought dinner had come to an end but were presented with Hand-rolled Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles. As a chocolate lover, I can only say that I wished I had the whole tray to myself.

Afterwards, a fine selection of Cheese, Dried Fruits, and Crackers accompanied the post-dinner wine and conversation.

Although newly opened, Salut Private Dining has already received strong interest from regulars, who invite Chef Karl to their homes for private catering. A minimum party of 6 persons is required, and the dining room can accommodate up to 20. Typically, a 5-course menu starts from $198 per pax, with no service charge or GST. If interested, do reserve at least 2 weeks to 1 month in advance.

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


Salut Private Dining
Grange Heights
15 Saint Thomas Walk
Singapore 238145
Tel: +65 9831 3067
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to bus stop at Riva Lodge (Stop ID 13071). Take bus number 32, 54, 139 or 195. Alight 1 stop later. Walk to Saint Thomas Walk street. Turn right onto Saint Thomas Walk street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk down River Valley Road towards Saint Thomas Walk. Turn left onto Saint Thomas Walk. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]