Showing posts with label Chicken Kaarage. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicken Kaarage. Show all posts

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Café Natsu @ Joo Chiat - Unveils New Menu Featuring Japanese Staples with Local Sensibilities

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Café Natsu is excited to launch its new menus at both its Joo Chiat and Orchard outlets, featuring a fusion of Japanese and local flavours. These menus offer a warm and comforting dining experience, with carefully crafted dishes incorporating traditional Japanese cuisine and familiar local touches. Furthermore, Café Natsu's commitment to exceptional quality extends to sourcing fresh ingredients and the finest produce from Japan.

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Kaarage 3.8/5

The Kaarage ($14) features a thin, crispy coating on the outside that gives way to a tender and juicy interior. What sets it apart is the unique coating of Dong Bei spices, which adds a delightful burst of flavour. The spices infuse the dish with a savoury and aromatic profile that perfectly complements the succulent chicken. While the Kaarage is a treat on its own, it is worth noting that the combination can be a tad salty for some palates when paired with the mayo on the side.

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Chawanmushi 4/5

The Chawanmushi ($8) consists of a savoury steamed egg custard that is elevated with a delightful combination of ingredients, including clams, snow fungus, and ikura. The clams impart a subtle brininess that mingles beautifully with the delicate flavours of the custard. In contrast, the ikura imparts a pleasant pop and a delightful saltiness that perfectly balances the dish's overall taste.

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Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set 4.2/5

Café Natsu Joo Chiat introduces a hearty lunch set that will capture your hearts with its exquisite flavours and carefully curated ingredients. Diners can choose between the Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set ($36), featuring a house-made Wagyu patty, or the Teishoku Set ($32). We opted for the Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set ($36), which features a tender and succulent patty, refreshing oroshi and a yolk atop. To complement the wagyu hamburg, a side of sauce is provided, adding an additional layer of depth and richness. The meal is accompanied by appetisers and chestnut rice cooked with house-made dashi.

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Pork Katsu Sando 4/5

The Pork Katsu Sando ($26) features a generous portion of crispy and tender pork katsu, complemented by the delightful crunch of the tamanegi and the refreshing crispness of the lettuce, providing a delightful contrast to the succulent pork. What sets this sandwich apart is the doubanjiang aioli, a sauce that brings the flavours to a whole new level. The doubanjiang, a fermented chilli bean paste, infuses the aioli with an intensely umami-rich taste and a subtle sweet touch. The Pork Katsu Sando is also served with a side of Togarashi fries. These crispy fries, sprinkled with Togarashi seasoning, provide a delightful kick of heat and spice.

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Uji Matcha Kakigori 4.2/5

Moving on to the desserts, the Uji Matcha Kakigori ($14) features a slightly different ice texture, characterised by a rougher shaved ice consistency. The matcha-infused ice in the Uji Matcha Kakigori exudes a distinct and robust flavour profile. Accompanying the ice is a heavenly soft coconut foam that adds a creamy and luxurious touch to the dessert. It is adorned with a drizzle of gula melaka that adds a delightful hint of sweetness and depth, balancing the earthy bitterness of the Uji Matcha.

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Zenzai 4/5

The Zenzai ($12) features a velvety and comforting azuki red bean soup. The sweetness of the red bean soup is perfectly balanced, allowing the natural flavours of the azuki beans to shine through. I love the chewy and soft kiri mochi tangyuan embedded within the soup, which added a delightful textural element to the dessert. Overall, it is a traditional dessert that embodies the essence of Japanese culinary traditions and is perfect for those seeking a soothing and indulgent treat.

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In conclusion, my experience at Café Natsu was a positive one. The food offered at the café was undeniably good, with a range of dishes that delighted the taste buds. From the delightful Wagyu Hamburg Bowl Set to the delectable Pork Katsu Sando and the flavourful Chawanmushi, the menu showcased a fusion of Japanese and local flavours that left a lasting impression. The attention to detail in ingredient sourcing and the thoughtfulness of crafting each dish were evident, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Café Natsu truly delivered on its commitment to providing exceptional quality and flavours that pleased the palate.

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.


Café Natsu
283 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427537
Tel: +65 8886 4697
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 830am - 530pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 33. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to Koon Seng Road. Turn right onto Koon Seng Road. Walk towards Joo Chiat Road. Turn right on Joo Chiat Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 33. Alight 4 stops later. Walk down Joo Chiat Road towards Koon Seng Road direction. Walk down Joo Chiat Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes.  [Map]

Monday, March 13, 2023

WOKE Ramen @ Changi Airport Terminal 1 - Singapore's First Wok Hei Ramen

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WOKE Ramen, located at Changi Airport Terminal 1 viewing mall central, is Singapore's first wok hei ramen. It is a cultural crossover between Japanese ramen broth and Chinese lamian noodles. The noodles are stir-fried in a seasoned wok that singes them for the smokey aroma (wok hei).

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Seafood Mix Prawn Ramen 3.8/5

There are two broth bases - prawn and chicken for the enjoyment of the wok hei ramen. I had the Seafood Mix Prawn Ramen ($18.90), which comprises a treasure trove of prawn paste balls, tiger prawns and scallops served atop wok hei ramen, onsen egg, black fungus and spring onions in the savoury prawn broth. The prawn broth gets the tick for its umami seafood richness. The noodle's texture is on the soft side, which is not my preference. The prawn paste ball is the paste type, while I preferred the crunchy version. Overall, it is still a decent bowl of ramen.

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Chicken Chashu Collagen Ramen 3.8/5

For a lighter option, go for the Chicken Chashu Collagen Ramen ($13.90). The flavourful and creamy broth allows a fuller appreciation of the wok hei ramen than the prawn broth. It is topped with grilled chicken chashu, onsen egg, black fungus and spring onions for a slurping bowl of goodness.

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Onion Oil Ramen 3/5

Go for the Onion Oil Ramen ($8.90), a dry version tossed in aromatic onion oil and garnished simply with spring onions for the unadulterated appreciation of the noodle's wok hel smokiness.

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Chicken Karaage 4/5

There is a number of sides to go along with the noodles, making it a complete meal. The Chicken Karaage ($4.50) was chunky and juicy with a delectable coat of crispiness and crunchiness.

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Golden Beancurd Skin 3.8/5

The other sides I had were the Golden Beancurd Skin ($3.50) and WOKE Gyoza ($4.50). The golden beancurd is not only crispy on the exterior, but the meaty fish paste interior made me enjoy it more. A delightful choice is the gyoza deep-fried to crisp with juicy filling.

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WOKE Gyoza 3.5/5

For an additional $5.50, you can complete your meal with a choice of side and drink.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


WOKE Ramen
Changi Airport Terminal 1
Viewing Mall Central
80 Airport Boulevard
#03-19
Singapore 819642
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Changi Airport MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to the skytrain platform. Take the skytrain to Terminal 1. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar @ Kinex - New Mod-Japanese Restaurant With Inventive Interpretations Of Izakaya Food

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Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar is a new mod-Japanese restaurant at Kinex. Diners can look forward to inventive interpretations of izakaya food and Japanese cuisine prepared with fresh and quality ingredients.

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Maguro Tataki Salad 3/5

We started with the Maguro Tataki Salad ($28), which comes with thick slices of tuna layered on a bed of mixed salad and kaiso seaweed. Pour the wasabi yuzu sauce and give everything a good toss to brighten the enjoyment.

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Shironi Truffle 4/5

The Shironi Truffle ($30) consists of light and clean tasting sea bream topped with caviar and drizzled with truffle oil for an elevated finishing. It is an elegant and beautiful dish.

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Tofu Nuggets 4.2/5

One of my favourite items on the menu is the Tofu Nuggets ($12). The tofu nuggets are made from pressed tofu, almond meal and potato. It is as good as McDonald's nugget and much healthier.


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Uni Kura Tart 4.5/5

Making an impressive entry is the Uni Kura Tart ($22/pc). It is served in a smoked jewel box, giving it a beautiful smoky aroma, topped with salmon roe and truffle cream. It is a lavish play of umami flavours.

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Charcoal Chicken 4.5/5

Using chicken thigh cut, the Charcoal Chicken ($16) is tender and juicy inside, yet crispy on the exterior. It is a delightful and addictive starter. Best to go along with a few drinks.

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Tsukune 4.5/5

The Tsukune ($5.20) is another delightful bite to go with the drinks. What I enjoy about the homemade chicken meatball is its soft bone, giving it a nice textural contrast.

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Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke 4.5/5

Besides the a la carte items, diners can leave the meal to the hands of the skilful chef too. From the omakase menu, we tried the Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke. The best way to enjoy this is to pour the kombu dashi stock into the rice for a light and flavourful enjoyment. It is a hearty and comforting rice dish with melt in the mouth wagyu.

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Ume Jelly 3.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Ume Jelly ($8) made with Japanese plum liquor jelly and wholesome wolfberries.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar
Kinex
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-21
Singapore 437157
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

Direction: 
1) 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 Kinex Mall. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Sushi Delivery - Sushi Delivered Right To Your Doorstep

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Be it that you are planning a party or having a meal at the comfort of your home, Sushi Delivery - an online Japanese food delivery service will be able to satisfy your Japanese food craving. With just a few mouse clicks and you can get your order delivers to you with 45 minutes. Readers and followers of SG Food on Foot can also enjoy 10% discount for your delivery order from 13 March to 12 April 2020. Details of the discount promotion are at the end of the article.

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Premium Sushi Party Set 

For those that are hosting a party or have a large family, you can consider the Party Sets Menu which offers Moriwase Sushi Party Set ($49.90), Sashimi Party Set ($89.90) and Premium Sushi Party Set ($69.90). I ordered the Premium Sushi Party Set, which comes with a variety of sushi such as tuna, salmon, shrimp, unagi, scallop and more. I had a count, and there are 32 pieces in total. Quality-wise it is much better than a popular sushi restaurant and cheaper in price too. The sushi platter even comes with an extra tray laid with ice pads underneath, keeping the sushi fresh during delivery.

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Avocado Salad

If you are looking for something light and healthy, there are several salad items on the menu too. You can choose from Tofu Salad ($6.90), Avocado Salad ($6.90), Kani Salad ($8.30) or Seafood Salad ($13.90). For $6.90, the portion of my Avocado Salad is quite substantial with generous servicing of avocado slices atop a bed of fresh mesclun.

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Salmon Teriyaki Set Bento

With the coronavirus outbreak, many of us have chosen to eat out lesser to avoid crowded places. If you prefer to dine at the comfort of your home, Sushi Delivery also offers a selection of Rice Bowls and Bento Sets for delivery.

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Chicken Karaage Set Bento

For the Bento Sets, there are Chicken Karaage Set Bento ($10.90), Chicken Katsu Set Bento ($14.90), Pork Cutlet Set Bento ($18.30), Saba Shioyaki Set Bento ($12.90), Salmon Teriyaki Set Bento ($18.30) and Unagi Salmon Sashimi Set Bento ($18.90).

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There are many more Japanese food selection available at Sushi Delivery such as Sashimi, Maki, Appetiser and Sides on top of the food items I ordered. Do visit their website to check out the full list of food delivery options.

10% Discount Promotion
Thank you to the good folks at Sushi Delivery, readers and followers of SG Food on Foot can enjoy 10% discount of your delivery order from 13 March to 12 April 2020. All you need is to quote the promotional quote "Derrick10".


Sushi Delivery
Website
Contact: +65 83287438

Friday, October 19, 2018

Menya Kokoro @ Eat At Seven (Suntec City Mall) - Largest Maze-Soba Restaurant Chain from Japan, Opens In Singapore

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Menya Kokoro, one of Tokyo's most popular Maze-soba (Japanese dry ramen) restaurant chains established in 2013, has recently opened its first flagship outlet at Suntec City. Founder Chef Takuma Ishikawa has 13 years culinary experience under his belt and is trained under the original masters and creators of Maze-soba – Menya Hanabi – the restaurant known for introducing Maze-Soba to the world. In 2014, Chef Takuma even won the highly acclaimed Best Maze-Soba Award in Japan. It's no wonder that within a short period of 4 years since its opening, there are already 27 outlets worldwide in Japan, Indonesia, Spain, Thailand and Vancouver. The special minced meat sauce is imported from Japan and its extra chewy noodles is done locally with its in-house recipe.

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Maze-soba 3.5/5

While the Chinese have their Zha Jiang Mian, the Japanese have their Maze-Soba ($10.80). There are other variations available, alongside with Singapore-exclusive creations. Accompanying the minced meat sauce are ground saba fish, poached egg, nori, green onions, leek, bamboo shoots and chopped garlic. To a certain extend the mixture does become too salty after a while and I find no relief from the raw greens. But thanks to the kombu vinegar at the side - a few drops of it opens and brightens the flavours of the dish, like that of our Bak Chor Mee. Interestingly, the richness of the sauce brings out the best of its springy noodles, both its taste and texture. The noodles are cooked for exactly eight minutes and forty seconds using the chef’s fine-spun techniques to achieve the perfect texture. All noodles is made with multi-grain flour, consisting of over 35 percent whole wheat. Japanese water-softening technology is used to remove the minerals in the water it uses as well.

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Spicy Maze Soba 3.5/5

Personally I do like the Spicy Maze Soba ($11.80), though more voted against it. Not only there is an added dimension of aromatics from the spices, there is a slight sweetness in the sauce that balances its saltiness slightly. The vinegar gives it an even more rounded taste. The sauce sticking to the bottom of the bowl may be too good to be wasted, hence simply mix in the complimentary scoop of rice to sop in all the goodness. I love the free mushroom kombu soup, a much needed remedy to clear my palette at the end of the meal. The chopped greens do get quite overpowering after a while.

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Curry Maze Soba 3/5

With noodles of that thickness and texture, Curry Maze Soba ($13.80) may be mistaken as a curry udon. The original is still preferred, as the curry tends to overwhelm the flavour of the minced meat sauce and doesn't gel well with the soba.

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Curry Maze Don 3.5/5

The rice version Curry Maze-Don ($13.80) is created exclusively for Singapore, using 100% Japanese Michelin-acclaimed Tawaraya rice from Hokkaido and Niigata, specially selected by Singapore’s only Japanese rice sommelier. This Tawaraya rice is flown in straight from Japan in its raw state, and is polished only upon order to preserve its aroma. Although both soba and don come with extra grilled chicken cubes atop, the latter fares better as it was almost like enjoying a bowl of Japanese curry don, with extra heat and flavour from the minced meat sauce.


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Takoyaki 2.8/5

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Chicken Kaarage 3/5

Sides are available as well. The Takoyaki ($4.80) doesn't taste authentic, so what are worth your calories are probably the Chicken Kaarage ($4.80) and the Chicken Wings ($4.80), a Nagoya-style which most were vying for it.

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Chicken Wings 3.8/5

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Edamame 3.8/5

It unusual but we find the Edamame here, which comes with the stalk attached, a lot tastier than what we have tried before.

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If you love chewy noodles, Menya Kokoro will serve your needs. There are other versions too, such as a a more indulgent one with Cheese or you can also go meatless with their Vegan Maze Soba. Each has its own selling point but there are reasons why the original Maze-Soba is still the best selling, and among which I feel is that the rich minced meat sauce alone works best with the chewy noodles.

Words and photos 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.


Menya Kokoro
Suntec City Mall
Eat At Seven
3 Temasek Boulevard
#03-313
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 62353386
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1100am - 10pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]