Gordon Grill @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Celebrating German Gastronomy In Commemoration Of The Hotel's 120-Year Legacy

In commemoration of Goodwood Park Hotel's 120-year legacy, embark on a German gastronomy journey at Gordon Grill to celebrate the occasion. Why German? It is because Gordon Grill is once known as Teutonia Club in the 1900s. The property was an exclusive enclave for German expatriates. Hence the restaurant has put together an exemplary selection of notable German dishes interpreted through modern European culinary style.

We have the Five-course Degustation Menu ($98++) which will be available from 22 August to 21 September 2020. Besides that, there is also a three-course ($68++), and four-course ($88++) set menus to cater for everyone's preference. We started the dinner with the chilled Truffled Capellini with Crab Meat and Caviar to whet the appetite.

Chilled White Asparagus, Dill Cured Salmon 3.8/5

Our first appetiser is Chilled White Asparagus paired with Dill Cured Salmon topped with mesclun lettuce and shallot apple vinaigrette. I somewhat can associate with the dish as my first trip, and first meal in Germany was white asparagus a few years back. Unfortunately, due to the supply issue, they have to use white asparagus from Peru, which is just as sweet.

Seared Atlantic Sea Scallops 4/5

The second appetiser is Seared Atlantic Sea Scallops paired with smoked Black Forest Ham and Brown Mushroom Ragout, held together in a creamy, lemony buttered hollandaise sauce. The dish combines the flavours of Northern coastal areas of Deutschland with that of the South.

Bavarian Sauerkraut Soup 4.2/5

The comforting Bavarian Sauerkraut Soup is subtly sweet, creamy with a well balanced tangy finish. The addition of potatoes, speck and creme fraiche provide the boast in flavours and textures.

Pan-seared Halibut Fillet 4/5

For the main course, the guest will have a choice between the Crispy Pork Belly or Pan-seared Halibut Fillet. I decided to have Halibut, which is popular seafood found in Northern Germany. The firm and buttery white fish served atop an appetising compote of Swedish turnip, leeks and potatoes.

Crispy Bavarian Pork Belly 4/5

I took a photo of the Crispy Bavarian Pork Belly, which my dining companion had. Ok, It is served with dark beer and caraway gravy, a classic flavours of Bavaria. I more than took a photo, I got to try a piece of it it. What I really enjoyed is the layer of airy, crispy crackling skin. The piece of meat was also cooked to fork-tender.

Wrapping up the 5-course degustation menu is the classic German Red Grits served with luscious bourbon vanilla sauce at the side and Dark Cherry Crumble Cheesecake with Hazelnut Ice Cream. Guest gets to finish their meal with a choice of Goodwood blend of coffee or fine tea selection. Guest may place their reservations online at www.goodwoodparkhotel.com/dining/gordon-hill or call +65 67301744 or email gordon_grill@goodwoodparkhotel.com

Celebration of German Gastronomy at Gordon Grill (22 Aug to 21 Sep 2020)
3-Course Set Lunch at $68++ per person
4-Course Set Lunch and Dinner at $88++ per person
5-Course Degustation Lunch and Dinner at $98++ per person


Gordon Grill
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301744
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Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 7pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Crossroads Cafe @ Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel Singapore - Exciting New Gastronomic Treats

Crossroads Cafe which is strategically located at the bustling crossroads of Orchard Road and Scotts Road since 1995 has launched a new menu as well as irresistible dining promotions. The new menu pays homage to American, European and local culinary traditions. At the same time, guests may chill at the cafe which boasts an award-winning wine list of over 300 selections and an enticing selection of draft beers on tap, while watching the world goes by.

Cod Fish Croquettes 4.2/5

We started with some light bites. The Cod Fish Croquettes deep fried to golden brown is crispy on the exterior and packed with flaky cod fish. Dip it with the harissa aioli sauce for an elevated enjoyment.

Prawn Cocktail 4.2/5

A delightful and classic starter is the Prawn Cocktail. It is fresh, crunchy and just too good to stop at one.

Mezze Platter

Great for sharing is the Mezze Platter ($24) which comes with muhammara, hummus, tzatziki, tabbouleh, dolma, feta, olives and artichokes. I only wish there is more flatbread to go with the wonderful plate. The good thing is you can order more at extra cost.

Sliced Beef Char Hor Fun 4.2/5

Retained from the old menu is the Sliced Beef Char Hor Fun ($26). I can see why this dish gets to stay on the new menu. The dish comes with fragrant stir-fried rice noodles infused with wok hei, tender beef slices and greens in an eggy and silky broth.

Impossible Burger 4/5 and Buttermilk Fried Chicken Burger 4.2/5

Vegetarian and health-conscious diners will be glad to know that Crossroads Cafe has introduced the Impossible Burger ($28) on the menu. The plant-based patty tasted like real beef. I probably cannot tell the difference in a blind taste. The burger comes with crisp tomato, refreshing cucumber salsa, creamy raita, red onion and arugula, sandwiched with soft sesame bun. Not forgetting the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Burger ($26) which is as good too. Tender chicken patty accompanied with red cabbage slaw, gherkins and spicy mayonnaise. It actually tastes like McDonald McSpicy!

Steak Frites T-Bone 4.5/5

Not into plant-based meat, how about the real thing? The huge piece of T-Bone ($168) features a luscious and tender 400-day grain-fed Australian wagyu, served with choice of bearnaise, black pepper jus or red wine jus. The flavours are rich and full-bodied, with a delectable char on its exterior. It already so good on its own that there is no need of the sauces.

Caramel Cheese Cake 4/5

Wrapping up the dinner is the classic American Cheese Cake, caramel flavoured. It is topped with speculoos crumble and whipped cream. It is creamy but not overly sweet.

Not to be missed is the Happy Hours, Mondays to Fridays from 11am to 8pm, for an irresistible price of $10 per drink. Yes, that is a whole 8 hours of Happy Hour!

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Crossroads Cafe
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 68314552
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Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sat-Wed: 7am - 1am
Thu-Fri: 7am - 2am

Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Lobby Lounge @ InterContinental Singapore - Journey Through A Baking Odyssey With Classic Afternoon Tea: Origins

InterContinental Singapore’s Executive Pastry Chef Ben Goh was recently awarded by World Gourmet Summit as the Pastry Chef of The Year 2019. In celebration of his recent accolade, diners get to indulge in the new Classic Afternoon Tea: Origins at The Lobby Lounge available from 1 August to 31 October 2019.

Inspired by Chef Ben’s humble beginnings and his love of sweets, each treat in this afternoon tea presentation tells a story of his foray into culinary arts, documenting key milestones in the illustrious chef’s career.

We were treated to a beautiful multi-tiered stand which showcases a gorgeous array of desserts that represents Chef Ben’s pastry endeavours. Starting from the Kueh Lapis - first cake baked with his grandma in preparation for Chinese New Year to the desserts which helped him clinched his first championship winning at overseas competitions.

Highlights include the Apple Ginger Chocolate Praline, which helped Chef Ben Goh clinched his winning at his first overseas competition at Food & Hotel Malaysia in 2009. Also the Peach Melba Cheesecake, which helped him clinch his first International Championship in 2013 (World Dubai Hospitality Championship 2013). We loved the subtle sweet peach aroma which complemented the light creamy cheesecake perfectly.

Another favourite is the Chocolate Lemongrass Pineapple Cake which won him his first Japan Podium at Japan Cake Show in 2015. Covered in rich chocolate decadence and a tinge of lemongrass aroma, this exquisite creation by Chef Ben hit all the right notes with its texture and flavours.

Take a trip down memory lane with the authentic Buttercream Cake, reminiscent of his childhood. Simple as it looks, but every bit as delicious with its soft fluffy texture and complimenting cream which adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to the cake.

Guests with a penchant for savoury delights will also enjoy treats such as Bacon Onion Quiche, Wild Mushroom Cappuccino with White Truffle Cream, and Smoked Chicken, Chicken Floss and Coleslaw on Charcoal Bun.

A favourite would be the Crabmeat Mantou, with a juicy piece of crab meat on creamy avocado and a touch of caviar. Complete with a crispy piece of mantou to add a crunch to the savoury treat.

Not forgetting the all-time favourite Cranberry Lemon Scones and English Scones with strawberry jam, fig jam and clotted cream.

Further elevate your indulgent afternoon experience with a flute of Taittinger Brut Champagne, with unlimited servings of ice cream such as the Yoghurt Yuzu ice cream and Strawberry Sherbet, which came in second runner up at Mondial Des Arts Sucrés 2018. We loved the smooth creaminess of the ice cream, filled with a refreshing tanginess from the yuzu and strawberry, which makes for the perfect end to the delectable classic afternoon tea treat.

Classic Afternoon Tea: Origins is available at The Lobby Lounge from 1 August to 31 October 2019, from 2pm to 5pm daily. The set is priced at S$78* for two guests, inclusive of a fine selection of loose-leaf teas and coffee; and at S$108* for two guests, inclusive of two flutes of Taittinger Brut Champagne, and a fine selection of loose-leaf teas and coffee.

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 Lobby Lounge
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 2pm - 5pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

NOKA by Open Farm Community @ Funan Mall - First Rooftop Urban Farm-To-Table Japanese Restaurant

NOKA, which means farmhouse in Japanese on the rooftop of Funan Mall, is the sister restaurant to Open Farm Community. It is the first of its kind restaurant, offering a farm-to-table concept with its own rooftop urban farm. The farm spans over 5,000 square feet in partnership with Edible Garden City.

Plum Blossom Cocktail 3.5/5

My dinner started with the Plum Blossom Cocktail, which is a very refreshing and appropriate drink for Singapore's humid weather.

Refreshing Tomato Salad 4.5/5

We also have some salads, to begin with. First up is the Refreshing Tomato Salad ($15) which uses ox heart organic tomatoes from Malaysia and garnished with rooftop herbs. The clever use of the yuzu pepper vinaigrette perks up the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Organic Mushroom Salad 4/5

A tribute to the beautiful produces from the rooftop farm is the Organic Mushroom Salad ($18) using golden mushroom and kale from harvested from the farm to table. Holding the plate of salad together is the delicious fresh wasabi dressing.

Kampong Yakitori 4.2/5

We moved on to the snack bite menu, starting with the Kampong Yakitori ($12). The tender charcoal-grilled chicken thigh is so good that I am screaming for a mug of beer to go with it.

Cod Popcorn 4.5/5

You can throw the popcorn chicken aside, the Cod Popcorn ($18) will wow you even more. Soft in the inside and crispy on the outside, it is coated with a layer of sweet chilli sauce. The combination of the textures and sweetness makes it a very addictive snack bite topped with rooftop herbs, spring onion and roasted sesame.

Charcoal Calamari 4.2/5

Next is the black gold which is actually Charcoal Calamari ($15). It is another well-received dish with the dining group. Not forgetting the Japanese garlic aioli dip at the side, which enhances the whole appreciation of the black tempura squid.

Tuna Taku 3.5/5

If you need your carbo intake, there is the sushi bar that offers a variety of sushi. We had the Tuna Taku ($25) which consists of fatty tuna, tuna tartare, takuwan pickle, rooftop herbs, spring onions and rice cracker. It is satisfying but not something that will make you jump from your chair.

Koji Ton-Toro 4.2/5

For the mains, the Koji Ton-Toro ($38) stood out with its lemon garlic pepper sauce that goes really well with the tender pork jowl that has been marinated in rice fermentation culture. It is paired with kale and roasted potato at the side.

Black Cod Saikyo-Yaki 4.2/5

Cod marinated in miso is a classic combination which NOKA executed excellently in their own interpretation. What's unique with the Black Cod Saikyo-Yaki ($38) is the pairing with pulut hitam furikake and sea grape, giving the dish the additional boost in flavours and textures.

Oden 4.5/5

My favourite dish for the night has to be the Oden ($20). It is hearty, comfortable and most importantly, delicious. In the bowl, there is wagyu beef, daikon radish, satsumaage, itokon, tomato and okura. I think I can have this every day. I would recommend adding a bit of the mustard into the soup, lifting the flavour.

Wafu Parfait 3.5/5

Lime in the Coconut 3/5

To end the meal, we tried a couple of desserts. We had the Wafu Parfait ($15), Lime in the Coconut ($15) and Yuzu Cheesecake ($15). The desserts do look very pretty in terms of presentation. However, the flavours to be more vibrant to match up with the presentation.

Yuzu Cheesecake 3/5

As you probably have noticed, NOKA uses traditional Japanese cooking techniques for the farm-to-table concept. Besides the a la carte dishes we tried, NOKA also offers three-course set lunch at $45++ and omakase at $150++ per diner.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


NOKA by Open Farm Community
Funan Mall
109 North Bridge Road
#07-38/39
Singapore 179097
Tel: +65 68774878
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left onto North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 mins. [Map]

En Sushi @ Middle Road - Launches New Menu Featuring Signature Sashimi Moriawase, Delectable Maki Rolls And Sushi

Indulge in authentic Japanese delicacies at En Sushi - a contemporary Japanese dining restaurant featuring an extensive menu of Sushi, Sashimi, Donburi, Maki, Hand Rolls and Yaki that offer incredible value for money. Each dishes are delicately crafted to bring out the mouthwatering flavours of Japanese food.

The restaurant brings in a daily seafood import of at least 28kg with more than 20 types of fish incomparably priced for its freshness and quality, making Japanese feasts easy on the wallet at En Sushi. For those seeking quality Japanese fare without the hefty price tags, En Sushi offers a nonpareil dining experience with a plethora of fresh seafood, sashimi and savoury dishes for diners to indulge in.

En Signature Sashimi Moriawase 4.5/5

We were treated to a skilfully and strategically plated work of art - the En SIgnature Sashimi Moriawase (Seasonal). The plating stole the show with its gorgeous plating, vibrant array of flower embellishments, and several kinds of seasonal fresh fish served as sashimi. The selection of thick and delicately sliced premium fish includes the Mebaru (Black Rockfish), Madai (Seabream), Hirame (Flounder) and Shimaaji (Striped Horsemackerel), as well as a generous serving of fresh, creamy uni.

Appetiser Platter 4/5

For the appetiser platter, we had the Uni Ikura Onsen Tamago ($10.90), Pitan Tofu (4.90), Spicy Salmon Belly ($5.90) as well as the Chuka Wakama ($4.90). The sea urchin adds a creamy, slightly sweet note to the wobbly hot spring egg, and the salmon roe lends a juicy pop to the dish. Another favourite goes to the Spicy Salmon Belly, which has an addictive spicy tang to the fresh sashimi.

9-Kind Premium Sushi 4.2/5

The 9-Kind Premium Sushi ($70.90) features a vibrant platter display of 9 different kinds of sushi. On the plate, there are Otoro (Premium Tuna Belly), Chutoro (Tuna Belly), Akami (Premium Tuna), Madai (Seabream), Shimaaji (Striped Horsemackerel, Uni (Sea Urchin), Ikura (Salmon Roe) and Aka Ebi (Argentina Red Shrimp).

Buta Kakuni 3.5/5

The Buta Kakuni ($16.90) features braised pork belly, which leans slightly on the drier side. While we hoped that the meat retains a more tender, juicy texture, it is still packed full of umami.

Tofu Cheesecake 4/5

Round off the meal with their Tofu Cheesecake ($8.90) freshly made in-house. It boasts a soft melt-in-the-mouth texture reminiscent of tofu. It comes with a subtle hint of cheese and sweetness to it, making it a very light and enjoyable dessert to end your meal with.

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.


En Sushi
Midland House
112 Middle Road
#01-00B
Singapore 188970
Facebook
Website
Tel: +65 62598548
Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri-Sun: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to junction of Victoria Street and Middle Road. Turn right onto Middle Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

TXA Pintxo Bar @ The Alkaff Mansion - Bringing Basque Culture And Lifestyle To The Greenery Hilltop

1-Group has taken over the space at The Alkaff Mansion, restored and relaunched it with Basque-centred TXA Pintxo Bar on the ground floor and UNA on the second floor, bringing Basque culture and lifestyle to the greenery hilltop. It also houses the all-day flora cafe Wildseed Cafe. The purpose of my visit is to check out TXA Pintxo Bar. The first bar in Singapore dedicated to the unique Basque pintxo experience.

Aceituna Rellena De Vermouth 3.5/5

Our pintxo experience started with the Olive ($2.90) stuffed with vermouth jelly and orange zest and topped with fennel flower. Olive on itself can be sour, so the stuffed vermouth jelly provided the balance with its sweetness.

Crudiente de Jamon 4/5

The Iberico Cracker is sandwiched with smoked cod roe sauce. It is presented like a bikini sandwich. It may look simple, but it is packed with texture and flavour. The crispiness of the Iberico ham is a winner for me.

Boquerones con piperrada 4/5

Next, we had the Boquerones con piperrada ($3.90). Sitting atop the toasted bread is the picquillo cream, pickled anchovies and sauteed green and red bell pepper. The sweetness of the picquillo (a typical Spanish red pepper) is enhanced by the acidity of the tangy anchovies.

Pintxo Igeldo 4/5

The Pintxo Igeldo ($6.90) in a glance may look similar to the Boquerones con piperrada. A closer look you will notice that the toasted bread is made up of confit tomato, tuna, anchovies and piparra. The different ingredients come across complex but harmonious in flavours.

Crema de Roquefort Con Manzana Y Nueces 4.5/5

Initially, I was hesitant to try the Crema de Roquefort Con Manzana Y Nueces ($4.90) because I am not a fan of blue cheese. After much encouragement from my fellow diners, this turned out to be my favourite for the night. The pintxo is not as piquant as I thought. In fact, the sweetness of the apple jam cuts the acquire taste, and the walnut gives it a nutty finish. In short, it turned out to be a heavenly combination. A must order.

Pimiento Del Padron Con 4.5/5

The Fried Padron Pepper and Maldon Salt is another dish which I enjoyed. The Padron pepper named after the city it is from is not spicy at all. In fact, it is tough to find one that is spicy. You can add on Jamon Iberico de Bellota for an addition $3 for 5 gram.

Croquetas de Jamon Iberico 3.5/5

Many will be familiar with croquette, and it comes in every Spanish restaurant, in different forms and varieties. The Croquetas de Jamon Iberico ($14 for 4pc) deep fried to golden brown comes with a crispy breadcrumb exterior and soft interior with cured serrano ham.

Piquillos Rellenos de Brandada 3.8/5

The piquillo pepper is used again in the Piquillos Rellenos de Brandada ($4). It is stuffed with salted Atlantic codfish (bacalao) and paired with piquillo emulsion. The piquillo emulsion plays a vital role in holding the dish together, for the flavours to come together in harmony.

Txangurro a la Donostiarra 4/5

The Txangurro a la Donostiarra ($14) uses fresh crab meat and cook in sofrito base. Flour and seafood stock is then added before the mixture is poured into the empty crab shell. It is then topped with breadcrumb and butter and grilled. The appearance reminds me of a similar-looking Chinese dish, but the taste profile is very different. I thought it tasted like having french onion soup with crab meat, probably from the caramelised onion in the sofrito base.

Black Rabas "A Fuego Negro" 4.2/5

The Black Rabas "A Fuego Negro" ($22 for 5pc) is a traditional dish presented in a contemporary style. Squid and squid ink are blended together with other ingredients and fish stock. It is then formed into a donut shape using a mould and frozen. To serve, it is coated with flour, egg, tempura batter and deep fried. Pick up the squid ink donut with your hand and bite into a crispy exterior. The inside is soft with bits of diced squid.

Pulpo a la Parrilla con Pure de Nabo 4/5

Grilled to a perfect tender with hint of smokiness is the Pulpo a la Parrilla con Pure de Nabo ($8). It is paired with turnip cream, honey and picada oil. A well-thought dish with each components coming together for the delicious plate.

Carrillera estofada al vino tinto con espuma de patata 4.2/5

The Beef Cheek ($8) is stewed in red wine and paired with potato foam, caramelised apple cubes, parsley and garlic oil. The melted in the mouth beef cheek comes with a sweet winery flavour which goes well with the smooth potato foam. The caramelised apple cubes also help to cut through the richness. Another well-executed dish on the menu.

Buñuelos de Viento 3/5

The Buñuelos de Viento ($7.90) is little Spanish donuts that that an airy interior. The dough which is made from flour and eggs is deep fried and then dusted with icing sugar.

Tarta de Queso "LA VIÑA" 4.2/5

The Tarta de Queso "LA VIÑA" ($4.90) is a burnt cheesecake inspired from the popular La Vina in San Sebastian. It comes with a molten creamy centre and a caramelised flavoured crust. In a way or another, there is no need to fly all the way to Spain to know why the cheesecake is so famous.

If you are one that can't decide with choices, then you can go for the Pintxos Experience ($55++), in which the Basque Chefs will decide and prepare the different pintxos for you. Look forward to 10-12 savoury pintxos and 2 sweets. I find it somewhat similar to Japanese omakase experience, in which you leave it to the chef and served 'al momento'.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


TXA Pintxo Bar
The Alkaff Mansion
10 Telok Blangah Green
Singapore 109178
Tel: +65 67730070
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Blangah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 5pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Blangah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite Telok Blangah MRT station (Stop ID 14169). Take bus number 176. Alight 2 stops later. Walk down Henderson Road. Turn left onto Telok Blangah Green. Walk to destination. Journey time about 20 minutes. [Map]