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

Friday, April 18, 2025

Meh'r by Inderpal @ South Bridge Road - MasterChef Singapore 2023 Winner Inderpal Singh’s Playful Take on Southeast Asian Street Food

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Tucked away behind a discreet back alley along South Bridge Road, Meh'r marks the exciting debut restaurant of MasterChef Singapore 2023 winner Inderpal Singh. As the country's first and only Indian MasterChef, Chef Inderpal brings his culinary flair to the forefront with bold, creative renditions of Southeast Asian street food. The restaurant's current spotlight is the limited-time KTM Express Menu, a culinary journey through Malaysia and Thailand, available from 1 April to 30 June 2025.

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Pani Puri 3.8/5

We began the experience with a playful take on an amuse bouche – Pani Puri. Unlike the traditional savoury version, this one was filled with white dragon fruit, watermelon, and honeydew, with flavour contrasts brought in by basil, curry leaves, and banana yoghurt. One pop delivers a refreshing explosion of sweet and herbaceous notes – a surprising and lively start to the meal.

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Bak Bak Wings II 4.2/5

The Bak Bak Wings II ($26) from the small plates menu stood out as a clever reinterpretation of Hainanese Chicken Rice. Deboned chicken mid-wings were stuffed with chicken rice, while lollipop drumlet was glazed with a sticky-sweet char siew sauce. The dish came complete with a side of banana chilli and chicken consommé for a full chicken rice experience. Surprisingly, if we hadn't known the chef's background, we might have guessed this was a dish from a Chinese kitchen – that's how refined the interpretation was.

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Thosai Matti 4.2/5

The Thosai Matti ($28) took another familiar favourite — thosai — and gave it a bold, modern makeover. Beetroot-infused thosai was wrapped around a masala sardine pâté and topped with a charred French sardine. Traditional accompaniments like sambar, orange rind chutney, and coconut espuma tied the dish together, enhancing both flavour and nostalgia in every bite.

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Scallop Ceviche 3.8/5

For something bright and refreshing, we had the Scallop Ceviche ($34), where the sweetness of fresh scallop was uplifted with a zesty cure of orange, lemon, and chilli padi. A tom kha reduction, Thai mango, basil, ikura, and beetroot further added layers of tang and umami.

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Lamb Biryani 5/5

The showstopper of the night was undoubtedly the Lamb Biryani ($48). Served in a generous portion, the cranberry and pistachio-laced rice was light and aromatic, while the tandoori lamb rack was juicy, tender, and packed with spice. Paired with an eggplant pachidi and burnt cucumber raita, the dish delivered a robust symphony of flavours and textures. It's a dish you'll remember long after the last bite.

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Roti Canai 4.5/5

We were wowed by the Roti Canai ($18) for dessert, which masterfully reimagined the beloved Malaysian staple into a sweet treat. The shredded roti was tossed in sweet rasam powder and curry caramel, topped with a plum brûlée, and served with a side of spicy tapioca chips. It was quirky, bold, and immensely satisfying.

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Beyond the food, Meh'r also boasts a rooftop bar with stunning city skyline views. Whether you're dining in the main hall or enjoying drinks upstairs, the atmosphere feels equal parts sophisticated and relaxed – a fitting reflection of Chef Inderpal's culinary ethos.

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Meh'r isn't just a restaurant; it's a love letter to street food, artfully reimagined through the lens of a MasterChef. If you're in the mood for bold flavours, inventive twists, and a dash of nostalgia, this is one culinary journey you won't want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Meh'r by Inderpal
42 South Bridge Road
#05-01
Singapore 058676
Tel: +65 8839 5637
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Nearest: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 11am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sun: 11am - 4pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road. Turn right and walk to Carpenter Street. Walk down Carpenter Street, Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Cavern Restaurant @ Rainforest Wild ASIA - Singapore's First and Only Restaurant in a Cave

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Tucked away within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve's new Rainforest Wild ASIA, Cavern Restaurant is the latest concept by the TungLok Group. Designed to resemble the Mulu Caves of Sarawak, one of Southeast Asia's largest and most intricate cave systems, the restaurant offers a unique dining setting surrounded by rugged rock formations and lush greenery. Its location near the entrance of this new attraction makes it a convenient and immersive stop for visitors looking to relax and enjoy a meal in an environment that feels like a natural extension of the rainforest.

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Crystal Cave Salad 4/5

The Crystal Cave Salad ($22) is a vibrant and refreshing start to the meal. A creamy Spanish burrata sits at the heart of the dish, paired beautifully with heirloom beetroot in both classic red and golden hues. The truffle honey dressing lends a luxurious touch, while toasted walnuts provide a delightful crunch, elevating the salad's texture and flavour.

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Stone Hearth Loaf 3.5/5

Freshly baked in-house, the Stone Hearth Loaf ($12) boasts a crispy crust and a chewy, tangy interior, making it an excellent companion to the meal. The bread's rustic charm shines through, especially when paired with dips or butter.

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Emerald Canopy 3.5/5

For a lighter, crisp alternative, the Emerald Canopy ($12) features romaine lettuce tossed in a creamy green goddess dressing, punctuated with the peppery bite of fresh radish. It's simple yet refreshing.

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Spicy Wing 3.5/5

The Spicy Wing ($16 for 4pcs) isn't particularly fiery despite its name. However, the blue cheese dip served alongside — its pungent creaminess balances out any lingering heat, though its strong flavour might not appeal to everyone.

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Pulled Pork Taco 3.8/5

The Pulled Pork Taco ($22 for 3pcs) impresses with its succulent, slow-cooked pork infused with deep, smoky flavours. The buttery avocado and smoky paprika aioli add layers of creaminess and spice, all encased within a soft, pillowy taco shell. Every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavours, making it one of the best offerings on the menu.

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Smouldering Core 3.8/5

A much-improved version from its original, the Smouldering Core ($20) features charred cauliflower, halved and grilled to perfection. The barbecue sauce glaze on the exterior adds a smoky richness, while the garlic aioli and pickles inside provide a creamy, tangy contrast. It's visually stunning and finished with microgreens and edible flowers, giving it an elegant touch.

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Rigatoni Alla Vodka 3.5/5

The Rigatoni Alla Vodka ($22) delivers al dente pasta bathed in a tangy tomato-based sauce topped with micro greens and parmesan cheese. While the flavours are pleasant, I wished for a more generous amount of sauce to better coat each piece of rigatoni.

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Caveman's Meat Skewer 3/5

A dish for meat lovers, the Caveman's Meat Skewer ($38) features 200g of beef tenderloin, button mushrooms, shallots, and peppers, paired with chimichurri sauce. While well-cooked, the dish feels ordinary, lacking a standout element to truly impress.

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Ironstrike Knuckle 3.5/5

More satisfying than the skewer, the Ironstrike Knuckle ($28) is braised to fork-tender perfection, allowing the meat to fall apart effortlessly. Served with a mustard jus, the bold, tangy sauce enhances the richness of the pork, making it a comforting and well-executed dish.

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Pandan Bambolini 3/5

For dessert, we indulged in the Pandan Bambolini ($6 per piece) — a fried doughnut filled with kaya. The kaya itself is outstanding, bursting with fragrant pandan and coconut flavours, but the execution was inconsistent. Some pieces had barely any filling, leaving the dough too dry to enjoy fully. When balanced correctly, however, it's an aromatic and indulgent end to the meal.

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It’s important to set the right expectations at Cavern Restaurant. It isn’t about fine dining but rather a place designed to cater to the large volume of visitors, families, and tourists exploring the attraction. The menu is curated to be approachable and crowd-friendly, ensuring a quick and satisfying meal for guests of all ages.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cavern Restaurant
Rainforest Wild ASIA
20 Mandai Lake Road
Singapore 729825
Tel: +65 60220229
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Nearest MRT: Springleaf (TE Line), Choa Chu Kang (NS Line), Khatib (NS Line)

1) Alight at Springleaf MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk to bus stop opposite Thong Soon Road (Stop ID 56091). Take bus number 138. Alight 12 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 25 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Choa Chu Kang MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange (Stop ID 44009). Take bus number 927. Alight 16 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Khatib MRT station. Take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle Bus (not free). Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Mansion 7 @ Tanjong Pagar - Exquisite Dim Sum and Classic Cantonese Creations with Innovative Twists

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Mansion 7 is a relatively new Cantonese restaurant located in the outdoor car park next to Tanjong Pagar MRT. It offers creative twists on classic Cantonese dishes while maintaining the use of high-quality ingredients and exquisite presentation.

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The space is well-suited for gatherings and business meetings. The staff was enthusiastic about ensuring our comfort and knowledgeable about their food.

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Chicken Wing Stuffed with Bird’s Nest and Crab 4.2/5

We started with an off-menu special: Chicken Wing Stuffed with Bird's Nest and Crab. While the filling was milder than we expected, its natural flavours shone through, complemented by a crispy exterior.

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椒盐活鮑魚 Salt & Pepper Live Abalone 4.5/5

The 椒盐活鮑魚 Salt & Pepper Live Abalone (Seasonal Price) was such a treat. The abalone was perfectly tender with a slight crunch, coated in an addictive chili seasoning. Both my dining partner and I agreed it was one of the best abalone dishes we’ve had recently.

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潮州金鱼饺 Angel Goldfish Dumplings 4.2/5

Next, dim sum dishes arrived, beginning with the beautifully presented 潮州金鱼饺 Angel Goldfish Dumplings ($11 for 3). Wrapped in delicate skin, the filling of mushrooms, lemongrass, and crab meat was unexpectedly tangy but harmonised well.

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七号公馆樱花虾饺 Mansion 7 Fresh Prawn Dumpling 4.5/5

We moved to the steamed items, starting with their signature 七号公馆樱花虾饺 Mansion 7 Fresh Prawn Dumpling ($9 for 3). The thin skin was on point and carried within it juicy prawn chunks.

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芋茸流沙包 Taro 'Lava' Buns 3.8/5

The 芋茸流沙包 Taro 'Lava' Buns ($9 for 3) were slightly too sweet for our liking, and we wished for a stronger yam flavour.

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冲绳黑糖叉烧包 Okinawa Brown Sugar Char Siew Bun 4.2/5

In contrast, the 冲绳黑糖叉烧包 Okinawa Brown Sugar Char Siew Bun ($9 for 3) fared a lot better. I am not usually a fan of char siew buns due to how sweet they can get, but Mansion 7’s rendition is well-balanced, featuring a subtle brown sugar fragrance and smoky char siew.

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脆炸麻婆豆腐卷 Si Chuan Mapo Tofu Beancurd Rolls 4/5

The 脆炸麻婆豆腐卷 Si Chuan Mapo Tofu Beancurd Rolls ($9), while slightly oily, delivered a bold spice and crunch. The map tofu filling alone would be perfect with white rice.

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杏香百花萝卜糕 Carrot Squid Paste Cake 4.2/5

Mansion 7's inventive twists on dim sum can be seen in many dishes, such as the 杏香百花萝卜糕 Carrot Squid Paste Cake ($10). This dish features carrot cake layered with squid paste, served with a side of Thai sweet chilli sauce.

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Lobster in Salted Egg and Butter Cream Sauce 4/5

Apart from dim sum, Mansion 7 also offers a wide range of live seafood, vegetables, barbecue meats and more. We had the Lobster in Salted Egg and Butter Cream Sauce (Seasonal Price) and while the lobster was very fresh, I personally preferred a strong salted egg flavour. Other flavours are available to order, including steamed in HK style, sashimi style, wok-baked with truffle sauce and more.

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梁祝鸳鸯蝴蝶酥 Love Story of Thousand Layer Butterfly Puff 4.2/5

Moving on to desserts, we began with the visually stunning 梁祝鸳鸯蝴蝶酥 Love Story of Thousand Layer Butterfly Puff ($11). Its delicate, flaky layers enclosed a mildly sweet sweet potato filling.

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开心果麻糍 Homemade Pistachio Mochi 4.2/5

We enjoyed the 开心果麻糍 Homemade Pistachio Mochi ($9) as well even though the mochi skin was not chewy type we expected. It was generously stuffed with crushed pistachio filling, being nutty and fragrant.

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招牌北海道3.6现烤芝士塔 3.6 Hokkaido Cheese Tart 4.2/5

My favourite dessert was the 招牌北海道3.6现烤芝士塔 3.6 Hokkaido Cheese Tart ($13). These tiny bites were amazing, with oozy lava-like cheese filling contained in an extremely light and flaky tart shell. The cheese was rich but not overpowering.

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雪莲子鸡蛋茶 Mt. Fresh Picked Chinese Herbal Egg Treasure Tea 3.8/5

Finally, we tried the 雪莲子鸡蛋茶 Mt. Fresh Picked Chinese Herbal Egg Treasure Tea ($8), a unique traditional dish of hard-boiled quail eggs infused in a tea base with Chinese herbs and spices. This was more of an acquired taste.

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.


Mansion 7
30 Maxwell Road
#01-03
Singapore 069114
Tel: +65 6038 0295
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 1030pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 1030pm

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

Friday, February 28, 2025

TUX Bar & Lounge @ Carlton Hotel Singapore - Newly Crafted Afternoon High Tea Set at $39 Per Pax

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TUX Bar & Lounge, located within Carlton Hotel Singapore, is a short walk from Bras Basah and City Hall MRT stations. This stylish lounge offers a cosy setting for intimate gatherings and features various promotions, including Happy Hour (4 to 7 pm daily) and Ladies' Night (4 to 11 pm on Wednesdays).

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Most recently, TUX introduced its new Afternoon High Tea Set, which is also available at Tuxedo Cafe & Patisserie on weekends from 1 to 4 pm. Guests can enjoy it in the lounge or the newly opened alfresco dining area.

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Afternoon High Tea Set 4/5

The set is priced at $39 per person (minimum two diners) and includes a curated mix of handcrafted sweet and savoury delights paired with coffee or tea. For a touch of indulgence, diners can opt for two glasses of Elderflower Gin Fizz or Pol Remy Excellence at $108 for two. These alcoholic options are also available à la carte at $22 per glass.

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With six coffee and tea options available, we opted for the Elegant Earl Grey and Acai Berry Pomegranate & Vanilla.

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We tucked into the tea, starting with the savoury tower. It included a decent range of Mushroom Quiche, Tuna Sandwich, Egg Mayo Croissant, and Fruity Avocado & Honey Walnut Coulis.

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Traditional English and Raisin Scones were also included, accompanied by classic clotted cream, strawberry, and blueberry yuzu jam.

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The highlight of the sweets tower was the Tuxedo Signature Cake, which changes regularly. During our visit, we had the Kumquat Hazelnut - a crisp-based dessert filled with rich, nutty chocolate that carried a tangy touch.

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Other sweets included Handcrafted Bonbon, Mini Honey Apricot Pistachio, Pina Colada Verrine, Mini Matcha Financier with Yoghurt Cream, Blueberry Cheese Tartlet, and Chocolate Raspberry Verrine.

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While the rest of the selection was pleasant, we found the Mini Matcha Financier’s matcha flavour milder than expected.

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Combo Platter Selection 4.2/5

Additionally, we sampled the Combo Platter Selection ($38) from the bar’s à la carte menu, ideal for 2 to 3 diners. It featured chicken satay, prawn cakes, fish fingers, marmite chicken wings, and pork skewers.

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Though initially had no expectations, we were pleasantly surprised by the piping-hot, well-executed items. Our favourites were the tender chicken satay and juicy pork skewers.

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.


TUX Bar & Lounge
Carlton Hotel Singapore
76 Bras Basah Road
Singapore 189558
Tel: +65 6311 8839
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Nearest MRT: Bras Basah (CC Line), City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 4pm - 2am
Fri-Sat: 4pm - 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. Walk to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Bras Basah road. Turn left and walk down Bras Basah Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]