CURE @ Keong Saik Road - Celebrates 9th Anniversary With A Limited-time Menu From Past & Present CURE Chefs

One Michelin-starred CURE celebrates its 9th anniversary with an exceptional limited-time-only menu. This ‘Past & Present’ menu is an all-star collaboration between three current CURE chefs and six ex-CURE chefs who now each helm excellent restaurants of their own.

The stellar line-up of chefs includes CURE’s Chef-Owner Andrew Walsh, Chef Gary Wong and Chef Aiken Low. Alongside them are Chef Stefan Liau from Hevel, Chef Ryan Newman from Le Bon Funk, Chef Maksym Chukanov from Qīn, Chef Kevin Wong from Seroja, Chef Melvin Chou from Terra and Chef Lewis Barker from Sommer.

Fermented Cashew Cream, Kelp & Banana Tart

Chef Stefan Liau from Hevel presents the first appetiser, a Fermented Cashew Cream, Kelp, and Banana Tart. Chef Stefan learned the kelp fermentation technique at CURE six years ago, and whilst I would never have guessed that this combination works, it is somehow a harmonious, creamy bite. It is also a little nutty, and the banana also lends some sweetness.

Irish Gallagher Oyster, Cider Granita & Caviar

The Irish Gallagher Oyster, Cider Granita & Caviar is a signature dish of CURE's Chef Andrew Walsh. The freshness of the chopped oyster is enhanced with horseradish cream, chopped shallots and celery. Cider granita adds a little icy texture and refreshing acidity, and it is finished with some briny caviar for the taste of the sea.

Salmon, Beetroot & Kampot Pepper

From his time at CURE, Chef Ryan Newman from Le Bon Funk used two favourite ingredients — cured salmon and beetroot marinate — to create this bright and cheerful (both in colour and taste) Salmon, Beetroot, and Kampot Pepper. It is an enjoyable appetiser that whets the palate before the more substantial dishes.

Abalone, Mushroom Broth & Sticky Rice

Chef Kevin Wong from Seroja is next with an auspicious dish of Abalone, Mushroom Broth & Sticky Rice. The abalone signifies continued longevity, prosperity and best wishes for CURE. The abalone was perfectly cooked and served in a wild mushroom stock and sticky rice with collagen. I really loved this dish, it's so warm and comforting and just hits the right spot.

Danish Langoustine, Tom Yum & Calamansi

Another hot evening favourite was the Danish Langoustine, Tom Yum & Calamansi by Chef Maksym Chukanov from QĪN. This pretty and tasty dish uses a whole langoustine. The juicy meat is grilled over binchotan charcoal, and the head is used to add sweetness to the Tom Yum soup. The soup is neither too tart nor too spicy; it's very balanced, and you can sip it slowly to fully enjoy the flavours.

Aged Silver Duck

As a surprise, Chef Andrew brought out his signature Aged Silver Duck, Fermented Summer Berries & Spiced Seven Tails Brandy Broth. The duck had rich, deep flavours, and the ageing process enhanced it for a very satisfying taste experience. There was also much buzz and excitement about the glass of liquid gold being served with the duck. It turned out to be a warm glass of duck consommé made with a reduction of duck bones, celery, carrots, onions, an infusion of thyme, rosemary and orange peel, and the addition of some spiced 7 tails brandy for depth of flavour just before serving.

Kyoho Grape, Fruit Tomato & Shiso

Chef Melvin Chou from Terra blends Italian and Japanese influences in this pre-dessert of Kyoho Grape, Fruit Tomato & Shiso. The base is made with fruit tomato gelee, with a refreshing topping of shiso sorbet, as well as peeled Kyoho grapes and Fruit tomato. This dish has some sweetness, with a touch of savoury and tartness. It is unique and quite refreshing.

Valrhona chocolate, Roasted hay, and White Miso

Last but not least, Chef Lewis Barker from Sommer ingeniously recreates the flavours of salted caramel using Valrhona chocolate, Roasted hay, and White Miso. Without salt or caramel, the dish achieves a unique depth with smoky notes from roasted hay and a subtle saltiness from white miso, creating a luxurious and inventive chocolate dessert.

This special menu is available from 11 June till 31 July 2024, and is priced at $188 for three courses, $218 for five courses or $238 for 9 courses.

Overall, I enjoyed the limited-time menu by the past and present chefs. Some dishes have more classic flavour combinations, while others feel more exploratory and innovative. Regardless, it is undoubtedly a golden opportunity to taste these esteemed chefs' signature dishes and craft.

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.


CURE
21 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089128
Tel: +65 9338 4207
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Wed: 6pm - 10pm
Thu-Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Kreta Ayer Road. Walk down Kreta Ayer Road and turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Entrepot @ The Robertson House - Introduces New Menu Infused With Nostalgia and Bold Flavours

Entrepôt at The Robertson House unveils an enticing new menu that will excite your taste buds with bold, robust flavours. Chef Nixon Low draws from his formative years, personal experiences, and conversations with guests and his team to introduce eight new dishes, each telling a culinary story that celebrates tradition and nostalgia. The restaurant space is also nicely decorated with art pieces for a heritage chic vibe.

Vietnamese-Style Crispy Rice Paper 4.2/5

We had the Vietnamese-style Crispy Rice Paper ($24), a nod to the past when Vietnamese junk boats were common on the Singapore River. This dish is fun and interactive, as diners assemble their own portion of toppings. It's a delicious mix of vermicelli, prawns, fresh herbs and peanut sauce piled on top of crispy rice paper, almost like a deconstructed spring roll.

Chicken Drunken 3/5

Secondly, a Chinese-inspired dish of Chicken Drunken ($22). The idea is certainly innovative, and the dish is beautiful- a platter of poached chicken roulades and goji berry marmalade, accompanied by a fragrant shot of Drunken Chicken Liquor to be drunk. However, I would have liked it with some dipping sauce as the chicken meat itself, although tender, could do with a little more flavour.

Dr Robertson's Chai Cured Salmon 4/5

The third dish of Dr Robertson's Chai Cured Salmon ($24) is a refreshing salad dressed in Dragon Fruit plum. The fennel, radish slaw, candied pecans, and granola also contribute a nice crunch and texture. With very bright flavours, this was light and easy to eat.

"Itek Sio"- Tamarind Braised Cherry Valley Duck 3.8/5

Moving on to the main dishes, we had the "Itek Sio" — Tamarind Braised Cherry Valley Duck ($54). I found this enjoyable. There was a duck leg confit and a sous vide duck breast, both of which were nicely cooked and soft. The baked banana shallots added aroma and a mild, subtly sweet flavour to each bite.

Aged Vinegar and Malt Sugar Glazed Kurobuta Pork Chop 4.5/5

The Aged Vinegar and Malt Sugar Glazed Kurobuta Pork Chop ($48) is one of the Chef's signature dishes, and it is impressive! The Kurobuta pork loin is cooked and fried to get a crispy edge before glazed with vinegar and malt sugar. The result is a nicely tender pork chop with the right amount of fat and meat and a pleasing sweetness to the meat. Cocoa nibs complete the dish, and grilled white cabbage and pickled vegetables refresh the palate.

Chef's Joo Chiat Charcoal Seasonal Whole Fish 4.5/5

I also very much liked Chef's Joo Chiat Charcoal Seasonal Whole Fish ($48). It's done in Thai style with a tangy and appetising Thai chilli sauce, accompanied by a raw papaya and wing bean salad and toasted glutinous rice. The exterior of the fish is nicely charred, while the flesh is fresh, juicy, and flaky.

"Hong Zao" Rice Cakes with Eryngii Mushrooms 3/5

One of the most interesting dishes of the evening was the "Hong Zao" Rice Cakes with Eryngii Mushrooms ($28). This dish consists of Teochew rice cakes, crispy red rice and black fungus cooked in a Red Yeast rice residue. Prepared by Chef Nixon's father during his mother's confinement period to nourish her after the birth of each of his younger siblings, this dish symbolises joyous moments and warm family memories in his life. It is a hearty dish (a little too savoury on its own) and is best paired with rice.

Fragrant Steamed Coconut Rice with Serundeng 4.8/5

As such, I recommend pre-ordering this special item of Fragrant Steamed Coconut Rice with Serundeng (not on the main menu, limited availability). It seems like a simple rice dish, but it's an absolute delight to eat with the communal main dishes listed above, especially with all that tasty gravy! The rice is light and fluffy and has the delicate fragrance of spicy toasted coconut.

Peanut Butter and Chocolate 4/5

Dessert is a real treat for all Peanut Butter and Chocolate ($17) lovers. It is assembled with peanut candy, chocolate genoise sponge cake, 72% dark chocolate mousse, and cashew nut praline. The peanut butter's savoury notes harmonise with the chocolate's sweet and bitter nuances for an indulgent final plate.

To complement your meal, there's a good list of cocktails and spirits. They even have their own exclusive Dr Robertson's Gin, crafted in collaboration with Tanglin Gin in Singapore.

This menu is now available at Entrepôt from Mon - Fri, 6pm - 10:30pm and Weekends (Last Order: 10:00pm).

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.


Entrepôt
The Robertson House
1 Unity Street
Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 8301689
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Clemenceau Ave. Turn left onto Clemenceau Ave, walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Camille @ 1-Flowerhill Sentosa - A New Floral Landscaped Multi-concept Destination By 1-Group

A multi-concept destination by 1-Group, 1-Flowerhill at Sentosa is the brand's latest floral-landscaped lifestyle F&B project. Three concepts — Wildseed Café, Wildseed Bar & Grill, and a French-Japanese restaurant, Camille — are housed within the century-old hilltop conservation house.

Textures of Artichoke 4/5

We had dinner at Camille, starting with the Textures of Artichoke ($28). Drizzled with burnt leek dashi and dill oil, the sunchoke chawanmushi base was delectable, but the artichoke variations seemed to lose their textural individuality. I also found the dill oil slightly assertive in the overall flavours.

A5 Hokkaido Beef & Tuna Akami Tartare 4.5/5

The A5 Hokkaido Beef & Tuna Akami Tartare ($42) followed this. Assembled tableside, I witnessed the luxurious combination of cold-smoked A5 Hokkaido Beef and tuna akami being accented with wasabi and crispy rice alongside other condiments. Such thoughtful combination offered a texture and mouthfeel that was a true delight.

Heirloom Tomatoes 4.2/5

The Heirloom Tomatoes ($26) offered a refreshing counterpoint—beautiful Australian tomatoes dressed with light Hōjicha tomato consommé and goat cheese croquettes. The shiso sorbet complemented the tomato flavour profile. I like the idea of having a warm element in a cold dish, but the croquettes' assertive flavour slightly overpowered the dish. Even though the croquette mixture was already sweetened with honey and sugar, a final touch of honey drizzle could have balanced the profile.

Robbins Island Wagyu Flat Iron MBS 7 3/5

For mains, the Robbins Island Wagyu Flat Iron MBS 7 ($62) arrived with salt-baked celeriac and caramelized shallots. While the accompaniments were interesting, the wagyu itself could have benefited from a bit more rendering to unlock its full flavour profile.

Magret de Canard 3.8/5

The Magret de Canard ($46) fared better. The roasted duck breast, dressed in a tart and sweet ume shiso jus, provided an excellent contrast. The marinated plum and heirloom beetroot perfectly complemented the duck's richness.

Marseille Seafood Stewed Papilotte Style 3.8/5

The Marseille Seafood Stewed Papilotte Style ($45) offered a comforting seafood medley in a flavorful lobster bisque subtly infused with yuzu. While the bisque could have been richer, it delivered a satisfying depth of flavour.

Camille Garden 2.8/5

Unfortunately, the vegetarian option under Mains, Camille Garden ($32), fell short. While the menu description promised a lot more, I found the dish rather hollow, with what were essentially carrot sticks standing on celeriac and butternut pumpkin puree. This dish could have been more delightful with a more substantial and flavourful execution that truly showcases the quality of heirloom carrots.

Deconstructed Black Forest 4.5/5

Ending the meal on a high note with the Deconstructed Black Forest ($28). Theatrical preparation added to the experience as the chef assembled the dessert tableside. Crafted with Valrhona chocolate mousse, frozen chocolate clouds, and cherry elements, it offered a delightful play on textures and classic black forest flavours. This dessert was a perfect finale to a unique dining experience at Camille.

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.


Camille @ 1-Flowerhill
Sentosa
6 Imbiah Road
Singapore 099696
Tel: +65 9630 1008
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfont (CC, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue–Sun: 6pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit E or C. Go to the top floor of Vivocity. Take the Sentosa Express to Sentosa. Alight at Imbiah Station. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

AIR @ Dempsey Hill - A Sustainable Dining Experience that Pushes the Boundaries of Culinary Innovation While Rooted in Environmental Consciousness

AIR, an acronym for Awareness, Impact, and Responsibility, represents more than just a restaurant — it's a sprawling 40,000-square-foot oasis at Dempsey Hill. Conceived by Chefs Matthew Orlando and Will Goldfarb, alongside entrepreneur Ronald Akili, this establishment serves as a hub for sustainability, featuring a circular campus encompassing a restaurant, cooking school, research space, and garden farm.

Fermented Cassava Flatbread 3/5

Our dinner commenced with the Fermented Cassava Flatbread ($16), accompanied by whipped mushroom "XO" butter. While the bread exuded a strong, yeasty flavour that didn't quite resonate with my palate, the savoury richness of the mushroom "XO" butter provided a redeeming quality. However, the price tag seemed a tad steep, considering its standard complimentary nature in most establishments.

Crispy Oyster Mushrooms 3.5/5

Next, the Crispy Oyster Mushrooms ($30) emerged from the kitchen. They boasted a delightful interplay of textures and flavours heightened by Sarawak pepper emulsion and pickled chillies. Despite their satisfying crispy exterior and vibrant taste profile, the pricing seemed disproportionate for what essentially amounted to deep-fried mushrooms.

White Fish Ceviche 4/5

A refreshing interlude arrived in the form of White Fish Ceviche ($29) featuring green mango and Kenari nut milk. The dish offered a light and revitalising experience, complemented by the satisfying crunch of emping crisps — an unexpected but welcome addition reminiscent of nachos.

The Whole Coral Grouper For Two 4.2/5

The Whole Coral Grouper For Two ($58) took centre stage for the main course. It is filleted, and confit bathed in a pool of green onion and black garlic vinaigrette sauce. While the fish was excellently prepared, it was the accompanying Smoked Fish Rillette with Fish Bone and Garlic Lavash stole the show, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" 4/5

The Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" ($18) exemplifies the ethos of AIR, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Crafted from by-products of common processes—cocoa husks, cascara, and coconut flesh—the dessert undergoes roasting and grinding with cocoa butter and sugar. The result? Luxurious chocolate bars boasting a rich, roasty flavour with subtle coconut undertones. This ingenious approach mirrors traditional chocolate-making methods yet eschews cocoa beans, epitomising AIR's dedication to creative, eco-conscious cuisine.

The Whole Papaya 3.5/5

The Whole Papaya ($18) dessert represents a creative and inventive approach to utilising the entire fruit. This intriguing creation incorporates not only the papaya fruit itself but also features papaya skin granite and uses papaya seeds to impart a peppery note to the dish. While I admire the innovation behind this dessert, I feel somewhat awkward encountering the papaya seeds during consumption. Nonetheless, it's a commendable effort to reimagine traditional ingredients and minimise waste in culinary creations.

In summary, AIR at Dempsey Hill offers a sustainable dining experience that pushes the boundaries of culinary innovation while remaining rooted in environmental consciousness. While some dishes may fall short of expectations, the overarching commitment to sustainability and responsible dining shines through, making it a noteworthy destination for eco-conscious gastronomes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AIR
Dempsey Hill
25B Dempsey Road
Singapore 249670
Tel: +65 8228 1528
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Turn left and walk to the open air carpark. Walk all the way to the end of the carpark to the entrance of AIR. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

AMI Patisserie @ Scotts Road - Popular Online Pastry Shop Opens First Physical Concept, Crafting Fine Pastries through an ode to Japanese and French Traditions

AMI Patisserie, celebrated for its online prowess in crafting exquisite pastries under the skilled hands of Chef Makoto Arami, has finally materialised into a physical haven at 27 Scotts Road. The Kyoto-style wooden townhouse on the grounds of the colonial black and white bungalow marks AMI Patisserie's debut in the brick-and-mortar world.

Upon entering, patrons are greeted by a serenely elegant Patisserie Café, offering seating for 12. This inviting space provides the perfect backdrop for intimate brunches or leisurely afternoon teas, showcasing fine a la carte sweets, savouries, and viennoiseries — all artfully prepared a la minute. The Chef's Table Discovery Experience ($118++) awaits for a deeper gastronomic affair in the exclusive 8-seat Tsudoi Dining Room.

Piedmont Hazelnut Financier 4.8/5

I had the privilege of embarking on the Chef's Table Discovery Menu — an exquisite 6-course culinary journey that delved into the artistry of pastry creation by Chef Makoto Arami. The Piedmont Hazelnut Financier initiated our journey. Spread with hazelnut praline and adorned with shaved roasted Piedmont hazelnuts, it provided a sweet overture to our 6-course symphony.

Bread Basket 4.5/5

A complimentary Bread Basket graced our table, featuring Sourdough Bread and Iwa Nori Escargot Bun. Accompanied by applewood-smoked and whipped unsalted Lescure butter, these creations showcased Chef Makoto's prowess in bread making too.

1st Course - Signature Choux 5/5

The Signature Choux held a special place in Chef Makoto's heart, paying homage to his father's choux recipe. This Japanese egg-filled craqueline choux, topped with crème fraîche, Schrenckii caviar, hanaho, and edible gold flakes, delivered a delightful blend of sweet and savoury flavours — a perfect harmony of crispiness and complexity.

2nd Course - Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette 4.8/5

The Shizuoka Tomato Tartelette drew inspiration from Chef Makoto's love for Italian flavours. Aged parmesan tartelette, topped with fromage blanc cream, fresh Amela tomatoes, basil oil, micro basil, and cornflower, harmonised Italian classics with a modern twist.

3rd Course - Japanese Uni Brioche 4.8/5

The Japanese Uni Brioche showcased Chef Makoto's fusion prowess, featuring brown butter brioche topped with lime cream, sea urchin, grated fresh wasabi, finger lime, and lime zest. This creation provided a burst of flavours, bursting with a firework of delights.

4th Course - Nasu Brulee 4.2/5

Inspired by Kyoto's Miso Dengaku, the Nasu Brulee featured bruleed eggplant custard, grilled beinasu dusted with sansho powder, and miso caramel. Paired with soy and miso ice cream, it presented a unique and complex flavour profile.

Palate Cleanser - La France Pear 4.2/5

A refreshing interlude came in the form of La France Pear — fresh pear topped with pear puree, chamomile gelee, and yuzu and pear granita. It is a sweet and invigorating dessert that cleanses the palate.

5th Course - Marble Dark Chocolate 4.2/5

The Marble Dark Chocolate was an artistic ode comprising three types of ganache, layered with plain and chocolate tuile and finished with a quenelle of Amaretto ice cream. This dessert celebrated the craftsmanship of the ceramic ware master who crafted the tableware for the Tsudoi Dining Room.

6th Course - Ichigo Milk 4.2/5

The Ichigo Milk, a finale featuring Amaou strawberries, showcased the 'king of Japanese strawberries.' With strawberries mixed in strawberry sauce, fromage blanc mousse, mint gelee, Hokkaido milk ice cream, strawberry granita, and edible gold flakes, it was a delightful conclusion — a light yet sweet ending to the culinary journey.

Oyatsu - Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie 4.5/5

To cap off the experience, the Oyatsu — Kumquat & Kokuto Pineapple Pie — offered a taste of Lunar New Year festivities. A Mille feuille puff pastry filled with almond cream, pineapple jam simmered with Okinawan kokuto black sugar, and kumquats from Miyazaki prefecture provided a sweet and symbolic ending.

In conclusion, the Chef's Table Discovery Experience at AMi Patisserie transcended a mere culinary journey — a symphony of flavours, artistry, and sentiment. Chef Makoto Arami's meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful compositions elevate pastries to a form of culinary art, offering patrons an unforgettable and deeply personal gastronomic encounter. AMi Patisserie's physical concept place is more than a patisserie. It is a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that defines Chef Makoto Arami's culinary world.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AMI Patisserie
27 Scotts Road
Singapore 228222
Tel:+65 8907 6146
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Nearest MRT: Newton (DT, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Patisserie Café
Tue-Fri: 1130am - 6pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 11am - 6pm
(Closed Mon-Tue from 19 Feb 2024 onwards)

Tsudoi Dining Room - Chef's Table Discovery Experience
Wed-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 7pm - 9pm
Sun: 12pm - 6pm

Diretion:
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]