Showing posts with label Chocolate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chocolate. Show all posts
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - “The Cocoa Connection”, An Exclusive Chocolate-themed Buffet, Exploring Chocolate Across Cultures and Cuisines
Edge at Pan Pacific Singapore has partnered with leading gourmet food supplier Classic Fine Foods to present “The Cocoa Connection”, an exclusive chocolate-themed buffet. Available now through 8 November 2026, this limited-time dinner experience brings together Executive Chef Andy Oh and Executive Pastry Chef Edina Si from Pan Pacific Singapore, alongside Classic Fine Foods’ Executive Chef José Luis Del Amo. Exploring chocolate through their respective diverse culinary lenses, the buffet offers a lineup of unique and tantalising expressions of chocolate across both sweet and savoury creations.
I found the Grand Carving Theatre to showcase some of the best chemistry between cocoa and red meat. Oven-roasted Leg of Lamb with Cocoa Spice Rub, Slow-roasted Rib Eye and House-smoked Crispy Pork Belly are served with Cocoa-infused Rosemary Jus. The jus, with its accentuated dark undertones, was a fitting match for the meats, particularly the lamb and beef.
Over at the Chef’s Signature Creation counter, Charcoal-grilled Chocolate-fed Wagyu Beef comes with Caramelised Onion and Dark Chocolate Jus, further accentuating the rich, beefy notes of the buttery wagyu.
The International Delights selection features Braised Pork Rib with Dark Cocoa and Coffee Glaze, which reminded me of the coffee-glazed pork ribs commonly found at zi char stalls. Truffle and Wild Mushroom Ragout Pasta with 75% Dark Chocolate Shavings was an interesting combination, although I found the cocoa element less essential to the dish.
The buffet spread’s key draw was undoubtedly the dessert selection, with an array of chocolate creations adorned with cacao beans. At its purest, the buffet offered a luxurious Weiss Chocolate Tasting Flight, followed by Assorted Chocolate Pralines that surprised me with their velvety fillings.
We also tried Chef José’s speciality desserts, including the Chocolate Vanilla Caramel Cake and the visually attractive Gianduja Yuzu Petit Four, which contrasts rich hazelnut chocolate with bright citrus notes.
Chef Edina’s creations showcased different cocoa profiles. The Chocolate Tart with Kumquat uses Kacinkoa 85%, pairing its deep, bitter notes with the fruit’s tartness, while the French Chocolate Mousse uses Mahoe 76%. Don’t miss Edge’s Signature Hazelnut Royaltine, where creamy Mahoe Milk Chocolate 43% meets a satisfying hazelnut crunch.
For something more comforting, the Chocolate Bread and Butter Pudding uses Tevenn 38%, offering a softer, sweeter profile. One of my favourites was the Blackout Cake, with its dense texture and intense chocolatey character. The staple Chocolate Fountain with Assorted Condiments was also a mainstay, rounding off an indulgent dessert selection.
“The Cocoa Connection” offers an extensive selection of chocolate-inspired sweet and savoury creations, making it a haven for chocolate aficionados.
‘The Cocoa Connection’ at Edge
1 October to 8 November 2026, available daily.
Weekday Dinner: Mondays to Thursdays, from 6pm to 10pm, $108++ per adult, $54++ per child (6 to 12 years old)
Weekend Dinner: Fridays to Sundays, from 6pm to 10pm, $118++ per adult, $59++ per child (6 to 12 years old)
All buffet prices are inclusive of free-flow soft drinks.
Words by Si An. A homebody who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.
Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT, CC Line)
Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]
Friday, May 15, 2026
Bouillon Gavroche @ Mandarin Gallery - Asia’s First Traditional Parisian Bouillon
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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]
Labels:
.Area: Orchard,
.Station: Somerset,
#Line: NS Line,
Apple tart,
Beef Bourguignon,
Camembert,
Chocolate,
Coquillettes,
Duck Confit,
Egg,
Endive,
French Food,
Media Invite,
Pasta,
Profiterole,
Ravioli,
Rillette,
Salad,
Salmon,
Sheperds Pie
Friday, April 17, 2026
Les Canons @ IOI Building - A Taste of Parisian Bistro Charm in Singapore’s CBD
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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]
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)



















































