Qiu Jin Xiao Chao 秋金小炒 @ Harbourfront Centre - Bringing Authentic and Affordable Sichuan Set Menus to Singapore with 28 Years of Experience

After 28 years of experience serving up Sichuan cuisine in China, Qiu Jin Xiao Chao 秋金小炒 has now stepped into Singapore with its first overseas outlet here in Harbourfront Centre. It specialises in local family-style Sichuan dishes that are served in bigger portions at a more affordable price tag.

The eatery offers a more casual dining setting with an a la carte menu and various types of set meals that fit different group sizes. These include Single Meals, Couple Meals, Family Meals and Deluxe Family Set meals. Generally, the dishes here are more heavily seasoned.

Sichuan Pepper Fried Chicken 4/5

Served on a huge oriental metal plate, the Sichuan Pepper Fried Chicken ($16.80) boasted a copious amount of dried chilli and fried chicken bites mixed in.

My dining companion and I appreciated how the chicken bites were not as bony but would have also preferred it to be more crunchy and less oily. The heat in this was manageable, at about medium spice level.

Mapo Tofu 4.2/5

The standout dish of the night for us was the Mapo Tofu ($8.80). Its addictive spicy bean sauce and chilli-based gravy are heavily seasoned but were surprisingly not as spicy as they looked. This was great to pair with white rice, and the portion of gravy with soft tofu cubes was also more than sufficient to share in a group. If you eat beef, check out the Wagyu Mapo Tofu - we heard it is one of their best-selling dishes!

Fried Diced Chicken with Corn 3/5

The Fried Diced Chicken with Corn ($12.80) paled in comparison to the other dishes with a lightly savoury mix of chicken cubes and corn. I recommend skipping it and trying the other dishes.

Sour & Spicy Pickled Fish 4/5

Another dish we enjoyed was the Sour & Spicy Pickled Fish ($24.80). Albeit a little oily, it had a well-balanced broth in its spicy and tangy flavours. The slices of fish were thick and tender.

Wuchang Rice

I appreciate the quality of the rice at Qiu Jin Xiao Chao. We learnt that the restaurant only uses premium Wuchang Rice which has been known to be more fragrant. They elevate that further by using bottled spring water from Nong Fu Spring and serving each day's rice with a different type of vegetable mixed in. On the day of our visit, they were serving carrot rice!

Overall, we found Qiu Jin Xiao Chao a good spot for group meal gatherings which offers satisfying quality dishes that would not break the bank.

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.


Qiu Jin Xiao Chao 秋金小炒
Harbourfront Centre
#01-45/46
1 Maritime Square
Singapore 099253
Tel: +65 9172 8296
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Common Man Coffee Roasters @ Alexandra - New Outlet Housed In A Heritage Building

Common Man Coffee Roasters has recently opened its outlet at Alexandra, located in a beautiful heritage building outside Anchorpoint. In the evening, Common Man Night Shift takes over to provide after-hours sessions with food and wine.

Turkish Common Man Breakfast 4.5/5

Its menu has been updated with a few dishes. Under Breakfast, we had Turkish Common Man Breakfast ($29). Presented in a rather unusual way but equally tasty. We had a phyllo-wrapped soft-boiled egg on the plate accompanied by 2 crispy feta balls on a bed of green hummus, served with grilled pita bread. The egg was gorgeous with a jammy centre, and the green hummus was well seasoned with a good amount of spice that gave this dish its characteristic flavour profile. The toasted pita bread had a nutty taste, making it a good base for the dish's bold flavours.

Kouign Amann Toast 4/5

For a sweet breakfast item, Kouign Amann Toast ($25) is an excellent alternative to waffles or pancakes, featuring the popular Kouign Amann from TBB crowned with Vanilla ice cream, complete with a classic cherry-chocolaty combination of cherries, plume compote and chocolate sauce. The sprinkle of chocolate granola nuts and almonds gave the dish a delectable crunch and nuttiness.

Conti Sandwich 3/5

Under Lunch offerings, Conti Sandwich ($29) features Foccacia from TBB spread with sundried tomato, and shaved ham and rocket leaves are sandwiched in between. The Foccacia was excellent, with a fluffy and chewy texture and a pronounced rosemary flavour. Though Strataciatella and Pecorino cream were listed on the menu, there was little of it. Overall, it is still a decent sandwich.

Grilled Veggie Salad 3.8/5

Grilled Veggie Salad ($27) was vibrant with savoury and citrusy orange miso dressing and appetizing with a salty punch boosted by an addition of Anchovy cream. It was hearty with charred courgette, burnt cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado and a soft-boiled egg. The salad is topped with pieces of morish parmesan crisp for a textural crunch.

Chilli Chicken 4/5

Chilli Chicken ($32) features a Supreme cut chicken breast, a dish that celebrates warm flavours and that of spices. Despite its lean nature, the chicken breast was exceptionally succulent, enriched with a serving of creamy avocado salsa and starchy smashed sweet potato. The accompanying harissa sauce elevated the bold flavour profile, with peppery rocket leaves and pickle onions to cut through the savoury intensity.

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.


Common Man Coffee Roasters
368 Alexandra Road
#01-01
Singapore 159952
Tel: +65 6877 4872
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Nearest MRT: Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 730am – 5pm
Tue–Thu, Sun: 730am – 10pm
Fri–Sat: 730am – 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Lime House Caribbean Restaurant @ Jiak Chuan Road - Launches New Caribbean Weekend Brunch Menu

Indulge in a captivating weekend brunch experience at Lime House Caribbean Restaurant, where the new brunch menu is set to delight your taste buds. Led by Chef Ricardo Allen, a talented chef from Jamaica, the menu showcases his passion for Jamaican street food and his heartfelt culinary creations inspired by his grandmother. The brunch menu at Lime House offers a delightful range of options inspired by all things Caribbean, from tapas to sharing platters, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

With over 300 labels, Lime House boasts one of the largest and most robust selections of rums, allowing you to pair your meal with refreshing rum or tropical cocktails. Sip on expertly crafted libations that perfectly capture the spirit of the Caribbean, further enhancing your dining experience. The Rumgria at Lime House Caribbean Restaurant is a tropical twist on Sangria, featuring homemade sorrel, a mix of fruits, red wine, and blended rum. This refreshing drink captures the essence of the Caribbean with its vibrant flavours and tropical flair.

Vegetable Stamp and Go 4.2/5

The Vegetable Stamp and Go ($10) features deep-fried fritters made with a flavourful blend of various vegetables, creating a medley of textures and tastes. To enhance the flavours and add a touch of sweetness, the fritters are served with a mango-flavoured sweet chilli sauce. The mango flavour adds a tropical twist, bringing a refreshing and fruity element to the dish.

Mini Patties 3.8/5

The Mini Patties at Lime House Caribbean Restaurant are delicious bite-sized pastries available in Beef ($15) or Vegetable ($12) options. The Beef Mini Patties feature tender and flavourful beef fillings, while the Vegetable Mini Patties offer an assortment of seasoned vegetables. Both options are wrapped in flaky pastry and served with jerk BBQ sauce. These Mini Patties are a delightful treat that packs big flavours in a small package, perfect for enjoying as an appetizer or as part of a shared meal.

Reggae Jerk Platter 4.2/5

The Reggae Jerk Platter ($50) brings together a mouthwatering combination of jerk BBQ shrimp, chicken, and pork or beef ribs. Served with sides of festival, roasted corn, and coleslaw, it offers a complete and satisfying meal that showcases the vibrant flavours of the Caribbean. The dish comes in a family platter for $80 or single platter for $50.

Traditional Jamaican Escovitch Fish 4/5

The Traditional Jamaican Escovitch Fish ($39) is a classic dish showcasing Jamaican cuisine's vibrant and bold taste, offering a tantalising combination of crispy fried fish, tangy escovitch pickles, and fluffy festival. The combination creates a symphony of flavours that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Jamaica. It is a must-try dish that celebrates the bold and vibrant flavours of the Caribbean.

Curried Goat 4.2/5

The Curried Goat ($30) showcases tender goat meat cooked in a flavourful curry sauce alongside potatoes and carrots. To complete the meal, ripe plantains are served alongside the curried goat. The sweet and caramelised flavours of the ripe plantains provide a delightful contrast to the savoury curry, adding a touch of sweetness. The dish is also served with rice and peas. The rice is cooked with flavourful coconut milk and kidney beans, infusing it with a creamy and aromatic quality.

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.


Lime House Caribbean Restaurant
2 Jiak Chuan Road
Singapore 089260
Tel: +65 6222 3130
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 5pm - 12midnight
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 12midnight
Sun: 12pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road towards Keong Siak Road. Turn right into the lane after the carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Duxton Plain Park. Cut through the park to Keong Siak Road. At Keong Siak Road, walk to Jiak Chuan Road. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

TEMPT Gastrobar @ Purvis Street - 5-Sensory Gastrobar to Tantalise Your Taste Buds

TEMPT at Purvis Street is a captivating gastrobar that skillfully blends cross-culture cuisine, thanks to the talented Chef-owner Candice Leong, also known as The Gluttonous Temptress. With a focus on merging traditional techniques and modern preparation methods, TEMPT creates a delectable culinary journey that embraces the best of both worlds.

The ambience at TEMPT is nothing short of alluring, with a sultry and mischievous vibe that teases the senses. As you step in, French jazz and deep house tunes from Candice's personal playlist set the mood, creating a symphony that beautifully complements and contrasts the raw, exposed industrial interior. Located within a stunning 1893 heritage two-storey shophouse at 31 Purvis Street, TEMPT effortlessly blends historical charm with contemporary grittiness, making it a unique and delightful dining destination.

Schexy Schmalz & Churned Konbu Butter with sourdough 3.5/5

Our gastronomic adventure began with Sourdough ($16) paired with TEMPT's Schexy Schmalz, a homemade rendered pork lard with crackling and Churned Konbu Butter. Sinfully delicious, the rendered pork lard perfectly complemented the sourdough, creating a delightful indulgence.

Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio 4/5

Next up was the Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio ($24), accompanied by a scoop of wasabi-creme fraiche gelato and a shio koji nagaimo-jalapeno-caper salsa. The dish was light, refreshing, and expertly balanced to bring out the sweetness of the scallop.

Kangaroo Tartare 3.8/5

The Kangaroo Tartare ($28) was a standout option for those seeking an adventurous palate. The rich and intense kangaroo meat, balanced with toasted quinoa, pickled yellow beets, and shoyu garlic puree, provided an explosion of flavours that pleasantly surprised the taste buds.

Oxtail Croquettes 4/5

The Oxtail Croquettes ($18 for 3pc) were a delightful treat, boasting a crispy breadcrumb coat and a tender and flavorful oxtail meat interior. Paired with laksa leaf chimichurri, the croquettes were a harmonious blend of texture and taste.

Puffed Beef Tendons 4.2/5

The Puffed Beef Tendons ($24 for 3pc), topped with Jamon Iberico and Kaluga caviar, were a crispy delight that perfectly combined textures and flavours, offering a delightful treat for the palate.

5-Ingredient Creamy Lobster Broth 4.2/5

The 5-Ingredient Creamy Lobster Broth ($22) was a rich and intensely flavoured delight, enhanced by the aroma of curry leaves and served with lobster carpaccio (+$16), making it a must-try dish on the menu.

Gnaughty Gnudi 4.2/5

Gnaughty Gnudi ($24), gnocchi-like dumplings made with ricotta cheese and incorporating Ku Chye (garlic chives) and spinach, were a unique and pillowy-textured delight. The sage butter, semolina sauce and grated parmigiano beautifully complemented the dish.

Venison Loin 4/5

The Venison Loin ($38), cooked to a perfect pink, was paired with charred mustard greens and in-house fermented ume plum. While some found the venison slightly gamey, I enjoyed its flavour, especially when paired with the fruity notes of the fermented ume plum.

Coquelet 4.2/5

The Coquelet ($42), a whole French baby chicken deboned and stuffed with sticky rice and chestnut, showcased a fusion of Western and Asian influences. With sides like jamon and edamame, the dish was a delightful marriage of flavours.

Deep-fried  Baby Corn in Husk 2.8/5

The Deep-fried Baby Corn in Husk ($18 for 5pc), charred and crunchy, paired with konbu caramelized cream, was a visual and textural delight, even though I personally preferred sweeter corn.

Tempt's Adult "Bounty" Bar 4.2/5

To end the meal on a sweet note, we savoured Tempt's Adult "Bounty" Bar ($16), an enticing treat made with coconut cream and Malibu coconut liqueur encased in a dark chocolate shell. The dessert was like a heavenly ice cream encased in a divine dark coconut shell.

Overall, TEMPT's culinary experience was a journey of creativity and flavours, artfully curated by Chef Candice Leong. The innovative cross-cultural dishes showcased a perfect balance between authenticity and modernity, making TEMPT a captivating destination for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


TEMPT Gastrobar
31 Purvis Street
Singapore 188608
Tel: +65 8299 7382
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Bugis (DT, EW Line), City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sat: 5.30pm - 12midnight
Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 5.30pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and Beach Road. Cross the road and walk down Beach Road. Turn left onto Purvis Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut through Raffles City Shopping Centre to traffic junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn right onto Purvis Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 7 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Cut through Bugis Junction and walk to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk down North Bridge Road. Turn left onto Purvis Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 7 minutes. [Map]
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Wang Dae Bak Grill @ Holland Piazza - South Korean Barbecue in a Modernized Classic Setting

Wang Dae Bak Grill at Holland Piazza is the brand's 3rd outlet, offering authentic South Korean barbecue in a modernised classic setting. The menu features fresh gourmet varieties such as US Prime Sirloin, Marinated Prime Ribs and Flower Pork Belly, including sets that cater to different dining group sizes.

The banchan here was really delicious! Besides the kimchi, I most enjoyed the braised egg and sauteed brinjal. They are refillable too.

Duroc Pork Belly

Duroc Pork Collar

For 2 or 3 pax, Buddy Set ($68) would be ideal if you intend to enjoy your meats with other dishes. The set has Marinated Prime Ribs, Duroc Pork Belly/Collar, Flower Pork Belly, and Marinated Chicken. The Pork Collar had a balanced marbling, lending the meat a good amount of flavour as the fats rendered off slowly on the sizzling grill.

Marinated Prime Ribs

Marinated Chicken

Both the chicken and prime ribs meat were marinated, but the marination did the chicken more justice than the latter. The chicken thighs were succulent, with flavours elevated by the marination. On the other hand, the tender beef did not deliver the anticipated beefy notes of a prime rib.

Spicy Seafood Tofu Stew 4/5

Other signature WDB dishes include this Spicy Seafood Tofu Stew with soft wobbly tofu. It was robust and heady with a depth of crustacean flavour from the fresh prawns and clams.

Kimchi Cheese Rolls 2.5/5

Kimchi and cheese combination sounds enticing, but the execution fell short with the Kimchi Cheese Rolls, which turned out to be a tad greasy. The kimchi and the cheese melded into one saltish tang. A kimchi cheese mandu or dumpling may have been a better alternative.

Kimchi Fried Rice with Cheese 4/5

Kimchi Fried Rice with Cheese was hearty and flavoursome, with the kimchi bits evenly tossed together with the pearly rice grains. The cheese was absent though. The charred bits formed at the base of the fried rice imparted a tantalising smokey nuance to the overall taste.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wang Dae Bak Grill
Holland Piazza
3 Lorong Liput
#02-01
Singapore 277725
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Nearest MRT: Holland Village (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Holland Village MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk to Lorong Liput. Turn right at Lorong Liput. Walk down Lorong Luput. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Gordon Grill @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Celebrates Diamond Jubilee

Gordon Grill, nestled within Goodwood Park Hotel, holds a special place in Singapore's culinary history as the city's first grill room in the 1960s. Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, Gordon Grill marks this milestone with a month-long celebration from 1 to 30 July 2023, offering exclusive anniversary deals and showcasing a selection of updated nostalgic creations from its past menus.

The 60th-anniversary celebration at Gordon Grill is not to be missed, as it provides an opportunity to experience the timeless elegance and exceptional cuisine that has made the restaurant an institution in Singapore's dining scene. Whether you're a long-time patron or a newcomer, this anniversary celebration is a perfect occasion to indulge in the legacy and tradition of Gordon Grill while savouring the finest culinary offerings.

Scottish Smoked Salmon 4/5

The Scottish Smoked Salmon ($32) is a delightful appetiser showcasing a whole slab of magnificent fish carved tableside. Served with accompaniments like capers, onions, chives, and lemon, each delicate slice of smoked salmon delivers a burst of rich flavour.

Cockie Leekie 4.2/5

The Cockie Leekie ($17) is a traditional Scottish soup that pleasantly surprises with its hearty and comforting qualities. Prepared by simmering barley, chicken, and leek in a peppery chicken stock for two hours, this unassuming soup becomes a wholesome addition to the meal, offering warmth and nourishment.

Seafood Bouillabaisse 4.5/5

Seafood lovers will relish the Seafood Bouillabaisse ($48), a flavorful stew brimming with Hokkaido Scallops, Tiger Prawns, Mussels, Clams, and Threadfin chunks. The depth of flavour in this dish is achieved through the meticulous process of simmering fish bones, shrimp heads, and scallop trimmings with saffron for at least 12 hours. For an elevated experience, adding a spoonful of homemade rouille into the soup infuses it with a creamy, smoky, and garlicky flavour profile.

Flambe Steak Diane Tenderloin 4.2/5

The Flambe Steak Diane Tenderloin ($78) presents a timeless classic that has delighted generations. Using USDA Black Angus Tenderloin, this dish is pan-fried and flambeed tableside with a splash of brandy, then adorned with a tantalising mushroom sauce. Served with a side of mashed potatoes and vegetables, each bite of this tender and juicy steak is a testament to the quality of the beef.

Chicken in a Basket 4.5/5

Surprisingly, the menu at Gordon Grill includes more than just steak. The Chicken in a Basket ($38) showcases the restaurant's versatility. This popular dish, originating from the 1960s, features a half-spring chicken marinated in buttermilk, coated with a seasoned flour and spice mixture, and deep-fried to perfection. The result is tender and juicy meat encased in a delightful crunchy skin. Accompanied by sides of sweet corn pancakes, banana fritters, and grilled garlic-butter corn on the cob, this dish is a delightful departure from the steakhouse norm.

Bombe Alaska 4.2/5

When it comes to desserts, Gordon Grill doesn't disappoint. The Bombe Alaska ($20) is a multi-tiered confection that combines a mixture of raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, and mango sweetened with brown sugar, folded into vanilla bean ice cream, and layered between fluffy vanilla sponge cake. The entire creation is then enveloped by a meringue that resembles a snow-capped mountain. As a visual feast and a treat for the taste buds, this dessert is a delightful way to end the meal.

Cherry Jubilee 4.5/5

The Cherry Jubilee ($24) is another show-stopping dessert prepared a la minute in front of diners. Sweet dark pitted cherries are cooked in a pan laced with butter until slightly softened, then flambeed with brandy. The cherries are then paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with almond flakes. Simple yet deliciously satisfying, this dessert showcases the natural sweetness of the cherries and creates a delightful contrast of flavours.

Gordon Grill's 60th-anniversary celebration presents an opportunity to indulge in a selection of nostalgic dishes that have stood the test of time. With their commitment to quality ingredients, impeccable cooking techniques, and warm service, Gordon Grill continues to captivate diners with its classic and enduring culinary offerings.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Gordon Grill
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301744
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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]