Showing posts with label Chocolate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chocolate. Show all posts

Friday, May 15, 2026

Bouillon Gavroche @ Mandarin Gallery - Asia’s First Traditional Parisian Bouillon

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Bringing a slice of 19th-century Paris to the heart of Orchard Road, Bouillon Gavroche at Mandarin Gallery introduces Singapore to the timeless charm of the traditional French bouillon. As Asia’s first of its kind, the concept revives a historic dining culture that predates the brasserie and bistro, where hearty, honest French fare is served all day in a lively, convivial setting.

Unlike its more refined sibling, Brasserie Gavroche, this new concept embraces accessibility — both in pricing and atmosphere — offering a menu of comforting French classics designed for everyday dining. With starters from $6, mains from $16, and desserts from $6, it is a refreshing addition to the local dining scene, where quality French cuisine is often associated with heftier price tags.

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Camembert Pané 4/5

The Camembert Pané ($14) is a quintessential French comfort starter. Encased in a golden, crisp breadcrumb crust, the thick wheel of Camembert reveals a luscious molten centre upon cutting. The richness of the cheese is thoughtfully balanced by a side of fresh greens, whose light acidity cuts through the indulgence. It is simple yet deeply satisfying.

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Oeufs Mimosa 4/5

A staple across Parisian bouillons, the Oeufs Mimosa ($6) celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Hard-boiled eggs are halved and filled with a creamy yolk mixture bound with mayonnaise and lightly seasoned with herbs. Unpretentious and nostalgic, the dish reflects the restaurant’s ethos, humble ingredients, executed with care.

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Rillettes de Saumon 4.2/5

The Rillettes de Saumon ($12) offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavours. Combining both poached and smoked salmon, the spread achieves a balance between delicate freshness and savoury depth. Lightly bound with crème fraîche and lifted with a hint of lemon zest, it remains refreshing on the palate. Paired with toasted bread, it makes for an easy yet refined starter.

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Salade d’Endives 3.5/5

The Salade d’Endives ($12) is a vibrant composition of contrasting flavours and textures. Crisp endive leaves bring a gentle bitterness, complemented by the creamy saltiness of Roquefort, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweetness of fresh apple slices. While refreshing, its assertive flavour profile may not appeal to all, but it serves well as a palate cleanser amid richer dishes.

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Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards 4/5

The Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards ($16) showcases a regional French speciality from the Dauphiné. These delicate, bite-sized pasta parcels feature thin, silky skins that almost dissolve in the mouth, encasing a creamy cheese filling. Served atop a bed of sautéed spinach, the dish achieves a lovely balance between richness and earthy freshness.

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Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes 4.2/5

A highlight on the menu, the Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes ($26) delivers deep, comforting flavours. The beef is braised until fork-tender in a rich red wine reduction, imbued with the sweetness of slow-cooked vegetables. Instead of the usual potatoes, it is paired with coquillettes, small elbow pasta that soaks up the robust sauce beautifully. Nostalgic and hearty, it captures the soul of traditional French home cooking.

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Parmentier de Canard 4/5

The Parmentier de Canard ($22) is a rustic, comforting dish akin to a French-style shepherd’s pie. Beneath a blanket of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes lies shredded duck confit, rich and deeply flavourful. Baked to a light golden finish, it is a hearty, no-frills dish that embodies the essence of French “cuisine bourgeoise” — honest, filling, and immensely satisfying.

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Profiterole 4.5/5

The Profiterole ($10) is a standout dessert. The airy choux pastry, lightly crisp on the outside, encases a swirl of vanilla soft serve. What elevates the dish is the warm, luscious chocolate sauce poured generously over the top, creating a delightful contrast of hot and cold while slowly melting the ice cream into a creamy pool.

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Tarte Fine aux Pommes 4.2/5

The Tarte Fine aux Pommes ($8) is a study in restraint and precision. A thin sheet of puff pastry forms the base, baked until crisp and buttery, topped with delicately sliced apples arranged in a neat pattern. Lightly caramelised at the edges, the apples retain their natural tartness, allowing the fruit to shine without excessive sweetness.

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Mousse au Chocolat 4.2/5

Ending on a classic note, the Mousse au Chocolat ($8) delivers a rich yet airy indulgence. Smooth and velvety with a slight density, it strikes a fine balance between lightness and depth, offering a satisfying chocolate finish without being overly heavy.

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Bouillon Gavroche successfully captures the spirit of Parisian bouillon dining — approachable, comforting, and steeped in tradition. The menu focuses on familiar French classics executed with finesse, while the pricing makes it accessible for casual, repeat visits. In a dining landscape where French cuisine often leans towards the formal and extravagant, Bouillon Gavroche stands out with its relaxed charm and honest cooking. In this place, one can simply drop in, enjoy a hearty meal, and return time and again.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bouillon Gavroche
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8522 0998
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Friday, April 17, 2026

Les Canons @ IOI Building - A Taste of Parisian Bistro Charm in Singapore’s CBD

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Tucked within the bustling Central Business District at IOI Building, Les Canons by the ilLido Group brings the charm of a Parisian neighbourhood bistro into a relaxed, everyday dining setting. Inspired by the easy rhythms of city life, the all-day French bistro moves seamlessly from breakfast to after-work apéro and casual dinners, offering a repertoire of classic French comfort dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

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Duck Rillettes 4.2/5

We began with a selection of small bites, starting with the Duck Rillettes ($9). The slow-cooked duck, shredded and preserved in its own fat, delivered a rich, savoury depth, best enjoyed spread over a crusty baguette. While satisfying, we found ourselves wishing for more bread to match the generous portion of rillettes.

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Calamari with Cocktail Sauce 4.8/5

A standout starter was the Calamari with Cocktail Sauce ($10). Lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, the calamari remained tender within. The accompanying Marie Rose-style cocktail sauce is creamy with a gentle tang, elevating the dish, making it irresistibly moreish.

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Escargots 4.2/5

The Escargots ($12) is a quintessential French staple, featuring half a dozen snails bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. The escargots were clean-tasting, perfumed with the richness of butter and garlic. Once again, extra baguettes would have been welcome to mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

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Foie Gras 4/5

For something more indulgent, the Foie Gras ($16) offered a decadent experience. The pan-seared duck liver was beautifully caramelised on the outside while retaining a buttery, melt-in-the-mouth interior. Served atop a savoury pancake, it leaned heavily on richness, and a touch of acidity would have helped balance the dish.

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Coq Au Vin 4.2/5

Moving on to mains, the Coq au Vin ($16) embodied rustic French comfort. The spring chicken, gently braised in red wine, was tender and infused with deep, savoury flavours, a hearty and satisfying option.

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Pomme Puree 4.5/5

On the side, the Pomme Puree ($5) impressed with its silky-smooth texture and rich buttery finish. It is a simple yet delightful accompaniment that complements the mains perfectly.

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Steak Au Poivre 4.2/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($22) stands out as one of the best-value steak frites options in the CBD. The no-frills plate features a well-cooked steak coated in a creamy peppercorn sauce, paired with crispy fries. It delivers on flavour and value, making it a compelling choice for a casual French meal in the city.

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Mont Blanc 4/5

Desserts continued the classic French theme. The Mont Blanc ($9) layers meringue with light chantilly cream and sweetened chestnut puree, resulting in a nutty, creamy dessert that is indulgent without being overly heavy. The Mousse au Chocolat ($8) keeps things traditional, offering a smooth, airy texture with a deep, dark chocolate profile that will appeal to those who prefer less sweetness. Meanwhile, the Tarte Fine Aux Pommes ($9) provides a lighter finish, with its crisp, buttery pastry topped with thinly sliced caramelised apples and served alongside chantilly cream.

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Mousse Au Chocolat 4.2/5

Wine takes centre stage at Les Canons, with a thoughtfully curated list of over 50 French labels spanning regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Loire Valley and Rhône Valley. With glasses starting from $8 and bottles kept under $100, the programme encourages diners to enjoy wine as part of an everyday dining experience rather than a special occasion indulgence.

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Tarte Fine Aux Pommes 4.2/5

Les Canons evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of earlier days when accessible French dining spots such as The French Stall, The Black Sheep Cafe and Saveur first introduced many in Singapore to approachable French cuisine. At a time when French cuisine was largely confined to fine-dining establishments, these places reshaped perceptions — much as Les Canons aims to do today.

With its approachable pricing, comforting classics, and easy-going ambience, Les Canons successfully captures the spirit of a Parisian bistro while fitting neatly into the pace of CBD life. It is a welcoming spot for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners, offering a taste of France without the formality.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Canons
IOI Central Boulevard Towers
2 Central Boulevard
#01-07
Singapore 018916
Tel: +65 89260726
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 830am - 11am (Breakfast), 11am - 10pm
Sat: 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at the Downtown MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 4 or 6. Walk to Commerce Street. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Friday, February 13, 2026

Bedrock Bar & Grill @ Pan Pacific Serviced Suites Orchard - 10 Premium Meats from Around The Globe

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Celebrating a significant milestone, Bedrock Bar & Grill’s World Meat Series enters its 10th year with its most ambitious edition yet. What began as a five-course, single-meat showcase has evolved into a six-course tasting menu featuring 10 different meats, offering diners a comprehensive, immersive carnivorous journey across the globe.

The World Meat Series 2026 – Edition I (priced at $158++ per person) brings together iconic favourites from the past decade alongside brand-new, exclusive additions, most notably the highly coveted Jeju Premium Hanwoo beef from Korea. Available from 14 January to 31 March 2026, this limited-time menu is designed for serious meat lovers and those seeking a memorable way to kickstart the year with indulgence.

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Flat Bread 4.5/5

A complimentary and signature starter, the Flat Bread sets the tone for the meal. Served warm, it is soft, fluffy, and comforting. Accompanied by butter and roasted garlic steeped in olive oil, the spreads elevate the bread, making it dangerously easy to polish off even before the first course arrives.

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Australian Tenderloin Carpaccio 5/5

A standout dish, the Australian Tenderloin Carpaccio showcases the quality of Cape Grim tenderloin, sliced paper-thin and seasoned simply with salt and pepper. Yellow onion shavings add a subtle bite, while a drizzle of truffle oil and truffle shoyu lends depth and aroma. Finished with chopped chives, this dish is elegant, restrained, and utterly satisfying.

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Red Pepper Australian Beef Tartare 4.5/5

The Red Pepper Australian Beef Tartare is bold and flavour-forward. Finely minced Cape Grim tenderloin is mixed with gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then crowned with a rich confit egg yolk. Served alongside thinly sliced Nashi pear and croutons, and finished with chives, sesame seeds, and crispy minced garlic, this dish delivers a harmonious balance of spice, sweetness, and umami, while allowing the beef’s natural flavour to shine.

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Slow Braised Australian Intercoastal 4/5

Comforting and hearty, the Slow Braised Australian Intercostal features Sanchoku wagyu cut into cubes, seared, and braised for 2 to 3 hours in a mirepoix, tomato paste, beef stock, and red wine. The result is tender, flavourful meat coated in a rich sauce. Served with burrata cheese and grilled sourdough, and finished with balsamic glaze and chives, it is indulgent without being overwhelming.

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House Cured Beef Bacon Salad 4.2/5

A creative take on a salad course, the House Cured Beef Bacon Salad uses US beef shortplate, cured in-house for a week with pink salt and pepper, then cold-smoked over applewood. Paired with grilled baby gem, fresh tomatoes, shaved parmesan, and microgreens, the dish is finished with a zesty lemon vinaigrette and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The result is smoky, savoury, and refreshingly balanced.

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21-Day Aged Lamb Rack 4.2/5

The 21-Day Aged Lamb Rack is dry-aged, sous vide at 55°C for three hours, and finished over applewood and charcoal. The lamb is tender and robust, served with roasted root vegetables — carrot, parsnip, celeriac, and beetroot — glazed in red wine sauce. A housemade rosemary mint sauce beneath the lamb complements the meat beautifully, enhancing its natural richness.

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Mangalica Pork Tomahawk 4.2/5

Rich and indulgent, the Mangalica Pork Tomahawk is deboned, sous vide at 55°C, then grilled over an applewood fire. Thinly sliced Gruyère cheese is laid atop and torched for added decadence. Housemade pickled pumpkin and whisky mustard provide much-needed acidity and sharpness, cutting through the pork’s natural fattiness.

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Woodfire Grilled Argentinian Angus Ribeye 4.5/5

One of the brand-new additions to the series, the Woodfire Grilled Argentinian Angus Ribeye features 100-day grain-fed beef from the Pampas region. Simply seasoned and grilled over applewood fire, the ribeye shines with robust beefy flavours. The vibrant housemade chimichurri adds a herbaceous, spicy lift, making this a classic yet satisfying pairing.

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Jeju Premium Hanwoo Ribeye Cap 4.5/5

Making its debut at Bedrock Bar & Grill, the Jeju Premium Hanwoo Ribeye Cap is a luxurious highlight. Known for its exceptional marbling and tenderness, the beef is grilled over applewood fire and served with a grilled jalapeño and béarnaise sauce. The accompaniments beautifully complement the richness of Hanwoo, allowing diners to fully appreciate this prized Korean beef.

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Yuzu Sorbet 4/5

A light and refreshing Yuzu Sorbet provides a welcome palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of the preceding courses and preparing diners for the final indulgences.

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Black Angus Striploin 4.2/5

The Black Angus Striploin is a classic cut done right, allowing the natural qualities of the beef to take centre stage. Known for its fine marbling and robust beefy flavour, the striploin is simply seasoned with salt and pepper before being expertly grilled over high heat to achieve a beautifully caramelised crust.

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Japanese Satsuma Wagyu A5 Striploin 4.5/5

The pinnacle of the tasting menu, the Japanese Satsuma Wagyu A5 Striploin, represents the highest grade of Japanese beef. Masterfully grilled, it is served with kizami wasabi (wasabi root stems) to enhance its sweetness, alongside shoestring fries dusted with shichimi togarashi. Rich, buttery, and luxurious, it is a fitting climax to the World Meat Series.

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Chocolate Marquise 4.2/5

The meal concludes with a Chocolate Marquise, made with digestive biscuit and roasted hazelnuts. Served with raspberries and blueberries, and drizzled with 66% Valrhona dark chocolate sauce, it offers a satisfyingly rich yet balanced finish.

Since its inception in 2016, Bedrock Bar & Grill’s World Meat Series has drawn discerning diners with its exploration of premium and lesser-known meats from around the world. This expanded 10th anniversary edition is the most comprehensive iteration yet—a thoughtfully curated retrospective that blends nostalgia for longtime fans with a “best-of” introduction for newcomers. For meat lovers seeking a global, indulgent, and expertly executed dining experience, the World Meat Series 2026 is not to be missed.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bedrock Bar & Grill
Pan Pacific Serviced Suites
96 Somerset Road
#01-05
Singapore 238163
Tel: +65 62380054
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to the ground level. Turn left and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 3 minutes. [Map]

Thursday, July 3, 2025

CUDO @ Stanley Street - Modern Comfort Food with Latin Soul

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Located along Stanley Street, CUDO is the latest bold concept by the team behind Siri House and Moxie. Rooted in the spirit of modern Latin American cuisine, CUDO draws on bold, comforting flavours reimagined through a contemporary lens. With Chef Steve at the helm, the menu offers a vibrant medley of dishes inspired by his culinary travels and nostalgic eats, all given a fresh, creative twist.

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Torched Truffadito 4.5/5

We began our dinner on a high note with the Torched Truffadito ($25). This refreshing small plate features thick slices of Japanese yellowtail, macerated in soy sauce and gently torched for a touch of smokiness. Finished with chipotle aioli, pickled cucumber, and radish, the dish is a beautiful balance of freshness, savoury, and zesty crunch.

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Warm Crab Queso 4.2/5

The Warm Crab Queso ($18) is CUDO's take on a classic cheese dip, elevated with luxurious touches. The dip combines cream cheese, ricotta, sour cream, smoked mozzarella, and chilli cheddar, infused with Worcestershire, Tabasco, and white onion confit. Sakura ebi oil and crispy ebi add an umami punch, while zucchini and lump crab bring freshness and texture. It is perfect when scooped up with the accompanying fried tortillas.

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Calabaza 4.2/5

A vegetarian delight, the Calabaza ($12) spotlights roasted Japanese pumpkin with a smoky chipotle aioli spiked with yuzu kosho. The sweetness of the pumpkin is complemented by pomegranate molasses, salty cotija cheese, and pistachio dust, which is a creative and flavour-packed small plate.

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Disco Fries 4.5/5

Inspired by Chef Steve's time in Staten Island, the Disco Fries ($16) are indulgent, satisfying, and utterly addictive. Crisp fries are blanketed in mozzarella and cotija cheese, drenched in a beef jus-based brown gravy, and tossed with chorizo, pickled onions, and salsa Rosada. It's a glorious mash-up of American diner nostalgia with Latin vibrancy.

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Chipotle Butter Prawns 4.2/5

The Chipotle Butter Prawns ($18) bring the heat and depth of flavour. Tiger prawns are rubbed with chipotle, roasted, and glazed with agave molasses before being finished with a torch. Served with house pesto and lime, each bite is smoky, sweet, and savoury with a zesty lift.

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Grilled Seabass Fillet 3.8/5

The Grilled Seabass Fillet ($33) was beautifully plated with parsley-lime sauce and pineapple salsa, but the over-charred skin was slightly too bitter, distracting from the fish's freshness. While the flavour elements were sound, the execution slightly fell short of the mark.

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Spaghetti Con Camarones 4.5/5

One of the showstoppers of the evening, the Spaghetti Con Camarones ($38), features squid ink pasta tossed in a luxurious Ancho bisque and topped with grilled tiger prawns. The sauce, made from sundried tomatoes, capers, white wine, ancho chilli paste, and seafood stock, packs rich, crustacean flavours balanced with tang and spice. Finished with chipotle oil, it's a must-order.

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Coconut Tres Leches 4.2/5

Light yet indulgent, the Coconut Tres Leches ($14) delivers a tropical spin on the classic dessert. The housemade sponge is soaked in coconut milk, vanilla, and condensed milk, then sprayed with white rum and topped with coconut cream, toasted coconut flakes, and berry compote, making for a refreshingly sweet end to the meal.

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Chocolate Tart 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Tart ($16) hits the spot. A silky chocolate mousse ganache is encased in a tart shell and garnished with cocoa pearls, housemade chilli jam, and candied nuts, creating layers of richness with a slight kick.

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Toffee Plantain 4.2/5

The Toffee Plantain ($15) is a decadent finale, combining a moist plantain-banana sponge with banana mousse, vanilla ice cream, and caramelised plantain. The orange zest adds a lovely citrusy lift, rounding off a dessert that’s both comforting and refined.

CUDO impresses with its thoughtful reinterpretation of Latin American dishes, presented with flair and rooted in comfort. From inventive appetisers to bold mains and delightful desserts, it’s a welcome addition to Singapore’s modern dining scene.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


CUDO
13 Stanley Street
Singapore 068732
Tel: +65 8221 6330
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 1130am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 1130pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]