ANJU @ Tras Street - Modern Korean Dining with Creative Flair

ANJU is a modern Korean dining and bar restaurant tucked along Tras Street in Tanjong Pagar. Taking its name from the Korean term for dishes enjoyed with alcohol, ANJU focuses on elevating traditional flavours while pairing its creative cuisine with a curated selection of Korean spirits and liquors. The restaurant delivers a refined take on Korean classics in a contemporary and elegant setting.

Buckwheat Crepe 4/5

We started with the Buckwheat Crepe ($16), a dish that immediately set the tone for the evening. The crepe had a gelatinous, bouncy bite, wrapping around pickled radish, egg, mushroom, and prawn, with Dijon mustard to tie it all together. A refreshing, eye-opening start.

Black Bean Mascarpone 4/5

The Black Bean Mascarpone ($16) was another creative snack, served with sourdough crackers. The mascarpone was addictively creamy with a balance of sweet and savoury notes.

Bangeo 4.2/5

The Bangeo ($26), featuring yellowtail ceviche paired with carrot kimchi and Earl Grey dongchimi, stood out for its lightness and refreshing zesty flavours.

Hogam Jeon 4.5/5

A highlight was the Hogam Jeon ($26), a signature dish comprising potato, zucchini, prawn, and onion pickle. Crispy on the outside with layers of textures inside, it was immensely satisfying. The optional addition of mozzarella (+$3) elevated the dish even further.

Yangnyeom Cauliflower 4/5

The Yangnyeom Cauliflower ($22) was a surprise. It looked like Korean fried chicken at first glance, but the crunchy cauliflower tossed in a sweet-spicy gochujang sauce (with chewy rice cakes for added texture) was just as addictive.

Dwaeji Deungsim 4.2/5

The Dwaeji Deungsim ($36) showcased tender, succulent Iberico pork grilled to perfection. Pairing it with barley ssamjang accentuated the flavour, while pickled radish refreshed the palate.

Spicy Dak Galbi 4.5/5

The Spicy Dak Galbi ($36) was another winner. Oven-baked, tender, and rich with flavour, the addictive marinade was complemented by cashew nuts and spring onions for texture and balance.

LA Galbi 4/5

We also tried the off-menu LA Galbi. The beef short ribs, cut across the bone, were marinated in a sweet sauce and grilled to a charred finish. Tender, juicy, and served with housemade green chilli sauce, it made for a harmonious bite.

Ssambob 3/5

Baek Kimchi 4/5

As accompaniments, the Ssambob ($10), barley rice rolls wrapped in savoy cabbage was a refreshing alternative to plain rice, though not particularly memorable. The Baek Kimchi ($7), a white kimchi with radish and red dates, was a bright palate cleanser that balanced the richness of the mains.

Korean Donut 4/5

Desserts at Anju were inventive and memorable. The Korean Donut ($18), made with sweet rice dough, had a chewy texture complemented by Parmesan tuile, cinnamon milk ice cream, sea salt meringue, and candied walnut. It was a light yet satisfying finish.

Sweet Potato 4.5/5

The Sweet Potato 2.0 ($18) was a standout. A reinterpretation of sweet potato crème brûlée (though more puree-like in texture), it was layered with caramelised sugar, sweet potato ice cream, brown butter crumble, chips, and a dusting of coffee powder. It was complex yet comforting.

Makgeolli Pannacotta 4.2/5

The Makgeolli Pannacotta ($18) was another creative dessert. The makgeolli jelly carried the fragrance of rice, enhanced by fresh melon and strawberry, condensed milk, and playful popping candy, for a sweet and refreshing ending.

ANJU is not your typical Korean restaurant. With its thoughtful pairings, modern reinterpretations, and polished presentation, it elevates Korean dining to something exciting and refreshing. While prices are on the higher side, the creativity and execution justify the splurge. Whether you’re here for a date night or a gathering with friends over soju and modern bites, ANJU delivers a memorable dining experience that stands out in Singapore’s Korean food scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


ANJU
62 Tras Street
Singapore 079001
Tel: +65 66121172
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun & Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

GUPSHUP @ The Serangoon House - The Great Indian Feast, 1-for-1 Promotion

GUPSHUP at The Serangoon House presents the vibrant, diverse flavours of Indian cuisine, elevated with contemporary finesse, under the guidance of Chef Jolly, a former MasterChef India judge and an award-winning culinary personality with over 25 years of global experience. The restaurant is tucked discreetly in the basement of The Serangoon House. Its intimate space, designed in Indian colonial style, carries a sense of grandeur with a touch of mystery. Chef Jolly's curation of regional dishes is wholesome, and some of which may be unfamiliar to the local palate. It is best experienced through the newly launched The Great Indian Feast, an unlimited à la carte dining journey spanning India's rich culinary tapestry.

Lotus Papdi Chaat 3.5/5

The Feast features 13 dishes, beginning with three appetisers: Pani Poori, Bhindi Amchur, and Lotus Papdi Chaat. The Pani Poori was an absolute standout, with paper-thin semolina shells filled with crushed potato and chickpeas. Served alongside were tamarind and spicy mint shots, which were sharp and tart, making each mouthful a punchy delight. The Lotus Papdi Chaat delivered a creamier contrast with yoghurt, pomegranate-mint sauce, and the satisfying crunch of lotus crisps.

Bhindi Amchur 3/5

The Bhindi Amchur are okra fries, dusted with chickpea flour, cumin, and mango powder, leaning more towards crisp finger food than juicy bites, but made for moreish nibbles.

Amritsari Chole 4.5/5

Tandoori Kulcha 4/5

From the Small Plates, the signature Amritsari Chole and Tandoori Kulcha stood out. The curried chickpeas were deeply spiced and hearty, well stewed to tender and soft, while the kulcha, stuffed with spiced potatoes, coriander, lime, and dried pomegranate seeds, was delicious even on its own.

Chicken Chettinad Curry & Parotta 4/5

Chettinad cuisine is renowned for its rich, chilli-driven gravies, and the Chicken Chettinad Curry exemplifies South India's bold, spice-laden profile. The curry carried a robust depth with tender chicken. Unfortunately, the handmade parotta fell short, seemingly undercooked and lacking the full layering of a well-made parotta.

Gosht Seekh Kebab 4/5

Chicken 65 4/5

Chicken Keema Kal Dosa 3.5/5

Other savoury highlights included Gosht Seekh Kebab, featuring tender lamb mince skewers flavoured with garlic, coriander, and mild chillies; Chicken 65, a South Indian classic of spiced, crispy fried chicken morsels; and Chicken Keema Kal Dosa, offering homely rice flatbread topped with spiced minced chicken.

Chilli Paneer 4.5/5

One dish that intrigued me the most was Chilli Paneer, one of the most well-known dishes in Indo-Chinese cuisine. The flour-coated fried paneer is tossed in a Tangra-style sauce that is sweet, spicy, tangy, and garlicky. The flavoursome sauce was a sharp yet delicious contrast to the gentle, milky sweetness of the paneer.

Kulfi Falooda 4/5

For desserts, we had Kulfi Falooda, featuring a house-made frozen reduced milk with almond and pistachio, fragrant with cardamom and rose, topped with vermicelli, holy basil seeds and a drizzle of raspberry sauce.

Other than The Great Indian Feast, GUPSHUP has also launched a refined menu of small plates, hearty mains, and creative desserts, ranging from street-style favourites such as chaat to elevated tandoor-grilled specialities and regional delicacies.

Promotion from 1 Sep to 15 Oct 2025
1-for-1 on The Great Indian Feast, $59++ for 2pax (limit to 90mins)
Only valid on Fri, Sat and Sun lunch

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.


GUPSHUP
The Serangoon House
301 Serangoon Road
Basement 1
Singapore 218224
Tel: +65 8866 0947
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Nearest MRT: Farrer Park (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm – 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Farrer Park MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk down Rangoon Road to Serangoon Road. Turn right onto Serangoon Road. Walk down Serangoon Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Royal Host @ Takashimaya - Celebrates SG60 & Its 1 Year Anniversary with Locally Inspired Dishes

To mark Singapore’s 60th birthday and one year since opening at Jewel Changi Airport, Royal Host unveils a special SG60 menu that fuses familiar local flavours with Japanese-Western flair. Here’s what we tried from the limited-time offerings, available till 31 August 2025.

Singapore Sling Mocktail & Vanda Miss Joaquim Tea

The Singapore Sling ($10.30) mocktail reminded us of a fruity punch that is light and refreshing, though nothing groundbreaking. On the other hand, the Vanda Miss Joaquim Tea ($6.80) was surprisingly memorable. Delicately floral, this orchid-and-cornflower blend slowly grows on you with every sip.

Laksa Flame Duet Grill 4/5

The Laksa Flame Duet Grill ($30.60) was the star of the meal. A surf-and-turf combo featuring juicy laksa-marinated prawns and chargrilled chicken thigh, this dish hits all the right notes. You can choose between Laksa Sauce and Truffle Cream Sauce; we recommend the Laksa. Rich, creamy and full of lemak without being jelak. Bonus: the tomato steak with melted cheese on top adds a nostalgic Western touch.

Flame Shell Symphony Pasta 3.8/5

This Flame Shell Symphony Pasta ($28.60) is a bold, seafood-forward dish with generous chunks of crab meat and prawns. The sauce, inspired by chilli crab, leans sweet and spicy, but we found the overall flavours a little too light. Spice lovers may still enjoy the kick.

Laksa Crunchy Slaw 3/8

A reinterpretation of the classic coleslaw, the Laksa Crunchy Slaw ($7.60) is dressed in a tangy laksa-spiced emulsion and topped with fresh coriander and crispy fried shallots. While refreshing and easy to eat, it didn’t leave a lasting impression.

Cendol Delight 5/5

We’d return just for this! The Cendol Delight ($8.60) swaps the usual shaved ice for scoops of luscious coconut gelato, topped with Japanese azuki beans, pandan jelly and crushed walnuts. The thick house-made gula melaka ties it all together. It’s nostalgic, indulgent and our favourite of the lot.

Royal Host's SG60 limited-time menu is a fun and respectful nod to Singapore's culinary heritage, with the inclusion of Singapore's favourites such as laksa, chilli crab and cendol -reimagined through a Japanese-Western lens.

To sweeten the celebration, Royal Host is offering a 1-for-1 promotion on their signature “ROYAL” Hamburg Steak (U.P. $24++) from 6 to 8 August 2025, available at both Jewel Changi Airport and Takashimaya outlets. This juicy patty made with premium steak-grade beef is one of their crowd favourites, definitely worth checking out if you haven’t tried it yet!

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


Royal Host
Takashimaya
391 Orchard Road
#B2-25/26
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 6908 1339
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Road (NS Line), Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Latido @ Tras Street - Singapore’s First Colombian Restaurant Refreshes Its Menu with Vibrant New Dishes

Since my last visit to Latido, I’ve been raving about Singapore’s first and only Colombian restaurant to all my foodie friends. Naturally, I was excited to return and explore their refreshed menu, and once again, Chef Fernando and team did not disappoint.

Pan de la Casa 4.5/5

A returning favourite, the Pan de la Casa ($8) remains a must-order. This house-made rye bread is glazed with fermented mushrooms and maple, bringing a deep, earthy note that is layered with sweetness. Paired with a luscious caramelised butter, it's something we couldn't resist slathering generously on every slice.

Carimanolita de Queso 4/5

A delightful surprise, the Carimanolita de Queso ($18) presents a cheese block crafted from cassava, crème fraîche, and Oaxaca cheese, then finished with a touch of black truffle. It’s an unexpected combination, but it melds beautifully into a creamy, savoury bite with an aromatic lift.

Ceviche Tropical 4.2/5

A vibrant new addition, the Ceviche Tropical ($24) is a tropical medley of mango, chilli, coconut, and Leche de Tigre served over thick slices of fresh Hamachi. It’s bright, zesty, and refreshing, perfect for Singapore’s heat.

Nuestra Arepa 3.5/5

The Nuestra Arepa ($18) is Chef Fernando’s homely rendition of the classic Colombian flatbread. Stuffed with Taleggio cheese and accompanied by a sweet-and-spicy Nduja sauce, this comforting dish felt like something you’d find at a Colombian family table, simple, rustic, and soul-satisfying.

Pulpo Asado 4.5/5

One of the showstoppers of the evening was the Pulpo Asado ($42). The perfectly charred, smoky octopus was incredibly tender and paired with cucumber, avocado, and Guindilla pepper. A gentle reminder, eat the octopus with a bit of the pepper for an extra punch that rounds out the dish.

El Tamalito 3.8/5

A creative take on a traditional tamale, El Tamalito ($32) features chicken and polenta wrapped in banana leaf, served with aji sauce for spice and sugar pearls for a subtle sweetness. It’s a dish that balances savoury and sweet with finesse.

Pescado a la Parilla 4.8/5

The Pescado a la Parilla ($68) absolutely stole the show. A whole grilled sea bass served with coconut rice and deep-fried plantains, the fish was moist, tender, and cooked to perfection. It’s a hearty, flavour-packed main that captures the essence of Colombian coastal cuisine.

Maracuya y Caffee 4.2/5

We ended the meal with Maracuya y Caffee ($12), a glass of burrata ice cream glazed with fermented lulo juice, layered with passionfruit, macadamia nuts, and Colombian coffee sauce. Think of it as an elevated affogato, creamy, tangy, nutty, and nuanced.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Latido
40 Tras Street
Singapore 078979
Tel: +65 89618191
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sat: 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

The Plump Frenchman @ Tan Quee Lan Street - Rustic French Classics Meet The Bold Spirit of Zouk

Say bonjour to The Plump Frenchman, where rustic French classics meet the bold spirit of Zouk. The launch of The Plump Frenchman marks an exciting new chapter for Zouk Group, blending the heartiness of classic French cuisine with the group’s signature flair for bold, vibrant experiences. It brings a fresh yet rooted take on French food, one that celebrates generosity, warmth, and comfort.

The menu at The Plump Frenchman is a reflection of Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja's culinary journey and affection for French cuisine. As Zouk Group's Chief Culinary Officer, Chef Lorenz infuses every dish with the creativity and soul honed from years spent in some of the world's most celebrated kitchens, including those in London, Paris, and Singapore. Now, at The Plump Frenchman, he reimagines French fare with warmth and approachability, inviting diners to experience French cuisine in a feel-good way. At the media preview, Executive Chef Lorenz Hoja also shared his philosophy that "French cuisine doesn't have to be rigid or overly refined; it should be delicious, generous, and deeply comforting."

While there's an à la carte menu, a good way to experience their offerings is through the Set Menu de Canut, available Monday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Diners can choose from a two-course set (main and dessert) at $25++, a three-course set (starter, main, and dessert) at $35++, or a four-course set (two starters, one main, and dessert) at $47++. The menu is reasonably priced, and Chef Lorenz promises that diners will leave feeling satisfied and full.

(As this was a media preview event, please note that event photos may differ from actual menu items)

Saumon En Papilotte 4/5

One of their signature dishes would be the Saumon En Papilotte (available on the set menu with a $15 supplement). Salmon is wrapped in parchment paper, allowing it to steam in its own juices alongside delicate aromatics. Infused with fennel, lemon, and rosemary, the dish is light yet flavourful, fragrant yet comforting.

Complementing the main course is a selection of satisfying sides ($9 each). We sampled a few, including the pommes de terre rôti (crispy roasted potatoes), silky mashed potatoes, carottes Vichy (glazed carrots with a hint of sweetness), and green beans. All were delicious and well prepared.

Poulet Rotisserie 4/5

Ham Sandwich 3.8/5

Another wholesome and hearty choice on the menu is the Poulet Rotisserie selection, a classic done right. Guests can opt for either a half or whole chicken ($17 half/ $34 whole), slow-roasted for tender, juicy meat. Each portion is served with a fresh mesclun salad, zesty pickles, and a bold sriracha sauce.

Other featured menu items include:

Coq Au Vin

Coq Au Vin ($37) is a classic French dish that stars tender chicken slowly braised in rich red wine, infused with earthy mushrooms, smoky bacon, and sweet carrots. The slow cooking melds the flavours into a savoury, comforting stew with a luscious, velvety sauce.

Chipirons

Chipirons ($16) is composed of baby squid stuffed with chorizo and topped with parsley, lemon, garlic, and olive oil, bringing together fresh Mediterranean ingredients in a straightforward preparation that highlights flavour and texture.

Salade Nicoise

For a light, healthy dish, Salade Nicoise ($24) features a refreshing mix of hard-boiled eggs, tender tuna, crisp green beans, potatoes, olives, and tomatoes, all tossed together to create a balanced salad.

Anchois

This dish of Anchois ($13) pairs salty anchovies with fresh tomatoes for a mild sweetness. Fresh basil and olive oil tie everything together for a simple, tasty snack.

Tiramisu de Citron 4/5

Desserts are a must at any French restaurant, and the Tiramisu de Citron ($11) offers a fresh, tangy twist on the classic favourite. It has a slightly sour note, but it's quite intriguing. Other dessert options include the Clafoutis ($11), featuring seasonal fruits and Chantilly cream, and the Mousse au Chocolat ($14), which was a bit too sweet for my dining companion but still quite enjoyable for me.

The Plump Frenchman is located a short walk from Bugis MRT, within the new Guoco Midtown II building, making it a convenient new dining destination for hearty, comfort food.

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


The Plump Frenchman
20 Tan Quee Lan Street
#01-20
Singapore 188107
Tel: +65 6817 3967
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 11am - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destiation. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]