Opus Bar & Grill @ VOCO Orchard Singapore - Flame-grilled Haven for Discerning Steak Enthusiasts

Opus Bar & Grill, nestled within VOCO Orchard Singapore, unveils a new Executive Chef, Dean, boasting an impressive career spanning over 25 years across the United Kingdom and Singapore. Known as a haven for discerning steak enthusiasts, we visited Opus Bar & Grill for a dinner that promised the elevation of flame-grilled perfection.

Crab Cake 4.5/5

The Crab Cake ($29) emerged as a star-studded starter. Crafted into a jumbo sphere, it showcased a decadent crab meat filling. The crispy exterior of the croquette-like creation harmonised impeccably with the mango puree, wasabi mayo, pickled pineapple, and a crowning touch of caviar. A luxurious prelude that set the stage for what was to come.

Burrata Salad 4.5/5

Following next, the Burrata Salad ($28) offered a refreshing interlude. The fresh and creamy texture of burrata paired seamlessly with fermented chitose cherry tomato and plum gel, creating a symphony of flavours. The addition of crispy basil crackers contributed a delightful textural contrast, elevating the overall dining experience.

Charred Cabbage Steak 4.8/5

Diverging from the conventional steak offerings, Opus Bar & Grill introduced the Charred Cabbage Steak ($22). This innovative dish showcased sweet cabbage with a smoky aroma from the grill, enhanced by the firework of flavours from herb cheese mousseline, shallot crisps, hazelnut snow, and chilli oil. It is an unexpected delight reminiscent of okonomiyaki, challenging the norms and delighting the palate.

Grain-Fed Miyazaki Striploin A4, Japan (300g) 4.5/5

A visit to Opus Bar & Grill is synonymous with savouring their flame-grilled steaks. Opting for the Grain-Fed Miyazaki Striploin A4 ($138) from Japan, we were treated to a sensory journey of exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavour. The flame grilling process unveiled the steak's full potential, a testament to Opus Bar & Grill's mastery of its craft.

Coal-Roasted Spatchcock Chicken 4.2/5

For those preferring alternatives to beef, the Coal-Roasted Spatchcock Chicken ($42) emerged as a stellar choice. The caramelised char on the skin, attributed to the tare glaze, complemented the moist and tender meat. It is accompanied by a side of Nori Mash, velvety and creamy.

Jivara Floral Garden 4.2/5

Concluding our dinner, the Jivara Floral Garden dessert made a grand entrance. Beautifully presented as a lollipop, it featured Passion fruit-inspired ganache, cassis micro sponge, dark chocolate cigars, and a Valrhona Jivara 40% praline milk chocolate. It is a rich and chocolaty crescendo, providing a sweet symphony to conclude our meal.

Opus Bar & Grill, under the guidance of Executive Chef Dean, rises above the ordinary steakhouse experience. It's a sanctuary where every dish and every bite compose a symphony within an epicurean masterpiece. The expertise in flame-grilled perfection establishes Opus Bar & Grill as an essential destination for those craving superbly grilled meats and seafood.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Opus Bar & Grill
VOCO Orchard Singapore
581 Orchard Road
Singapore 238883
Tel: +65 6730 3390
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily (Breakfast): 630am - 1030am
Daily (Dinner): 6pm - 103pm
Sat (Lunch): 12pm - 2pm
Sunday Brunch Buffet: 12pm - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Walk down Orchard Road to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Moxie @ Alumni Association Medical Centre (SGH) - A Modern Mediterranean Dining and Lifestyle Destination

Moxie, the fresh-faced Mediterranean dining and lifestyle haven, has gracefully descended upon the Alumni Association Medical Centre (SGH), replacing the erstwhile Kah Soh. Transforming the space into a modern beach house with a lively coastal vibe, Moxie offers a delectable array of shared plates and refreshing cocktails throughout the day.

The ambiance at Moxie is a breath of fresh air—literally. The modern beach house aesthetic is both inviting and chic, transporting diners to sun-soaked coastal getaways. The airy and vibrant atmosphere complements the Mediterranean fare perfectly, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal or casual gatherings.

Moxie Dip Platter with Sourdough/Pita 4.5/5

Kickstarting the coastal journey, we dived into the Moxie Dip Platter with Sourdough ($22). The platter offers a trio of delightful dips—Spinach Yogurt, Smashed Kabocha, and Whipped Ricotta. Each dip is a star in its own right, but if one has to be crowned, the Whipped Ricotta takes the throne. The interplay of textures and flavours, coupled with the choice of either Sourdough or Pita, is a crowd-pleaser.

Burrata 4.8/5

The Italian Burrata ($19) is a masterpiece. Paired with pickled red beets, charred grapes, pistachio dukkah, and red beet gel, the dish is a symphony of colours and flavours. The creaminess of the burrata finds harmony with the tanginess of the beets and sweetness of the grapes, creating a palate-pleasing experience.

Spiced Corn Ribs 4.5/5

The Spiced Corn Ribs ($16) are a revelation. Dressed in cumin-infused aioli, grated feta, and lime, the corn bursts with flavors. Eating it like a rib, squeezing lime included, adds an interactive element to the dish, enhancing the sweetness of the corn.

Grouper Crudo 4.5/5

The Grouper Crudo ($25) is a highlight for seafood enthusiasts. Local flower grouper meets Zhoug coulis, pickled Japanese cucumber, and diced red radish, creating a refreshing and vibrant dish. The coriander seeds sprinkled on top add a final layer of complexity.

Arugula Pesto Orecchiette 4.2/5

The Arugula Pesto Orecchiette ($38) is a flavorful pasta dish. Al dente orecchiette, sautéed prawns and scallops, crab meat, shaved parmesan, fresh arugula, and toasted pine nuts come together harmoniously, offering a medley of textures and flavors.

Catch of The Day - Fillet (200g) 4.2/5

The Catch of The Day (Fillet, $42, 200g) showcases the versatility of Moxie. With a weekly rotation of fish, the pan-fried fillet with clarified butter, browned almonds, and capers is a delightful dish. The moist fish comes with a hint of smokiness, nuttiness from almonds, and tanginess from capers, creating a symphony of flavours.

Moxie Mille Feuille 4.8/5

Save room for dessert, as Moxie's Mille Feuille ($19) is a showstopper. Layers of filo pastry, whipped cream cheese, strawberries, and blueberries, crowned with kataifi and raspberry, deliver a sweet ending with myriad textures.

Dark Chocolate Mousse 4.5/5

Concluding the feast is the Dark Chocolate Mousse ($16). Rich dark chocolate meets hazelnut ice cream, berry compote, toasted hazelnuts, and streusel, creating a well-balanced and indulgent dessert.

Moxie succeeds in bringing the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean to Singapore's shore. From the captivating ambience to the thoughtfully crafted dishes, each aspect of the dining experience at Moxie reflects a commitment to quality and creativity. The menu's diversity caters to various palates, ensuring that Moxie stands out as a delightful addition to Singapore's F&B scene. Whether you're craving a leisurely lunch or a lively dinner, Moxie beckons with its coastal charm and culinary prowess.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Moxie
Alumni Association Medical Centre
Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
2 College Road
Singapore 169850
Tel: +65 9339 3380
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu, Sun: 1130am - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 1130pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT. Take Exit 1. Cross the road. Turn right and walk down Outram Road towards the flyover. At the junction of Outram Road and Chin Swee Road, turn left and walk to College Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Usher in this Joyous Season with Da Paolo Gastronomia’s ‘Everyday Italian’ Festive Highlights 2023

Usher in this joyous season with Da Paolo Gastronomia's 'Everyday Italian' Festive Highlights available for self pick-up and delivery. They are available for orders online from 1 November to 31 December 2023 or while stocks last (whichever is earlier) for self pick-up from any Da Paolo Gastronomia outlet and delivery from 4 November 2023.

Stuffed & Deboned Roast Turkey 4.8/5

The Stuffed & Deboned Roast Turkey ($388, approximately 4kg) was excellent. Filled with its own meat and its Christmas Stuffing, which comprises chestnuts, shiitake mushrooms, and veggies, enveloping a classic Italian sausage Cotechino, it breaks the monotony of having roast turkey during the Christmas season. The stuffing itself was seasoned just enough to complement the tender turkey meat, and the flavoursome sausage imparted a depth of savoury and meaty flavour that truly enhanced the experience of enjoying a roast turkey on this special occasion.

Braised Beef Rib 3/5

The Braised Beef Ribs ($248, approximately 1.3kg) is new to the line-up, suitable for 6 to 8 persons. It's low-cooked in red wine and served with roasted potatoes, onions, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. While the rib was fork-tender, I found it lacking in flavour.

Brussels Sprouts, Turnip & Cranberry Salad

Truffle Mac & Cheese

Sumptuous sides are available to pair with the roasts. For a refreshing crunch, the best option would be Brussels Sprouts, Turnip & Cranberry Salad ($69). The cranberries lent pop of sweetness to the roots and vegetables. For something hearty and indulgent, Da Paolo's signature Truffle Mac & Cheese ($110) is good for 4 to 6 persons.

White Forest Log Cake 4.8/5

For the very first time, I've found a white log cake that isn't cloyingly sweet. Conversely, this White Forest Log Cake ($89, approximately 900g) was light, featuring white chocolate yoghurt chantilly. What makes all the difference is the homemade rum-spiked morello cherry compote in the centre. Sweet and tart, with a depth of smoky and bittersweetness imparted by the rum, perfectly matches the yoghurt chantilly.

Homemade Stollen 4/5

The new Homemade Stollen ($48, approximately 400g) is crafted with month-long macerated dried fruit and toasted nuts in their very own spice blend and traditional Kirschwasser. The toasted nuts are melded within, giving it a moreish nutty flavour, which helps cut through the richness of the sweet marzipan core.

Gingerbread Chocolate Tart 3.5/5

Rocky Road Eggless Brownie 3.5/5

There are new sweet delights as well. The Gingerbread Chocolate Tart ($89, approximately 700g) boasts a buttery gingerbread spiced crust with a gooey homemade caramel layer between almond frangipane and dark chocolate. While the tart is unique with its gingerbread tart shell, it could have been less sweet for a better balance. The new Rocky Road Eggless Brownie ($89, approximately 850g) features a layer of dark chocolate ganache and is topped with walnuts, marshmallows, and Maraschino cherries. I find the chocolate notes a tad overwhelmed by the sweetness.

Panettone

Exquisite Gift Hamper Panettone - Handmade by Da Paolo's artisan bakers in Italy, the dough is leavened for 36 hours to develop a softer and fluffier crumb with more intense flavours. Panettone Classico ($72 for 750g) and Panettoncino Classico ($14.90, 100g) are filled with raisins and candied citrus peels. In contrast, the Panettone Cioccolato ($75 for 750g) is studded with dark chocolate chips, and the Panettone Prosecco ($75 for 750g) contains Prosecco D.O.C.G. cream.

All offerings other than the Gingerbread Cookies, Stollen, Tea Tins, and Panettone are exclusively available online at https://gastronomia-foodtoorder.dapaolo.com.sg from 1 November to 31 December 2023 or while stocks last (whichever is earlier) for self pick-up from any Da Paolo Gastronomia outlet, and delivery from 4 November 2023. Orders must be made three days in advance, before 12pm. Enjoy anlol early bird offer of 15% off the Christmas Roast Bundle for orders placed from 1 November till 30 November 2023.

Mosella @ Pan Pacific Orchard - New Chic Restaurant at Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel

Nestled on the second floor of Pan Pacific Orchard in the heart of Orchard Road, Mosella is a culinary haven offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Peruvian-inspired cuisine. The restaurant boasts an enchanting setting perched over a waterfall and surrounded by lush foliage, providing a unique dining experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Pedro Samper, a San Sebastian native, the menu features a wide range of delectable dishes, from fresh ceviches to expertly prepared premium cuts grilled over a charcoal fire. Guests can choose from an à la carte menu or enjoy three-course set lunches and dinners, regularly updated to keep the experience fresh for returning patrons.

Salmon Tataki Tiradito 4.2/5

The Salmon Tataki Tiradito ($32) is a stunning dish that balances delicate and bold flavours. It features thinly sliced seared salmon, elevated by a vibrant mango salsa and burnt orange, which brings a sweet and citrusy touch to the plate. The dish is adorned with ikura, which offers bursts of briny and salty pops and finished with tahini, a creamy and nutty sauce that ties all the elements together.

Hamachi Tiradito 4/5

The Hamachi Tiradito ($36) combines fresh, thinly sliced Hamachi with a Mandarin Ponzu sauce that offers a zesty and slightly sweet contrast. The addition of truffle adds an earthy and luxurious note, while delicate garlic chips provide texture and a subtle savoury flavour. This dish represents a sophisticated blend of flavours and textures, showcasing Mosella's culinary creativity and commitment to using premium ingredients.

Gambas Al Ajillo 3.8/5

The Gambas Al Ajillo ($40) at Mosella is a classic Spanish dish featuring tender king prawns cooked to perfection in a fragrant garlic oil infused with a touch of chilli, adding pleasant heat to the dish. The use of garlic oil infuses the prawns with a rich and aromatic garlic flavour, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Black Cod 4.2/5

The Black Cod ($62) features a luxurious and buttery fish known for its fork-tender texture. It was expertly prepared to perfection, ensuring it practically melts in your mouth. The dish includes fresh green peas for a touch of sweetness, celeriac for an earthy note, and a zesty salsa verde that adds a vibrant note. The asparagus provides a crisp and fresh element to the plate.

Beef Tenderloin 4.2/5

The Beef Tenderloin ($48) is presented distinctively - served on two metal skewers. The beef is expertly roasted with a blend of aromatic spices, enhancing its flavour and tenderness. Accompanied by chilli oil and Anticucho sauce, a Peruvian-style marinade known for its bold and savoury character, the dish offers a harmonious balance of savoury and spicy flavours. The creamy potato puree adds a comforting element to the ensemble, complementing the beef's richness and spices. This dish is rich, flavourful, and a must-try for those seeking a satisfying and indulgent dining experience.

Japanese Sweet Corn 3.8/5

The Japanese Sweet Corn ($12) is a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. It features tender Japanese sweet corn generously drizzled with tangy lime miso butter for creaminess. The Aji Panca adds smokiness and mild heat, while togarashi provides a gentle kick of spiciness and a hint of umami. The dish offers a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and spicy flavours, showcasing the restaurant's culinary creativity and expertise.

Cacao 4/5

The Cacao ($22) is an interactive and delightful sweet treat. It features a Manjari chocolate tart with a rich cocoa filling encased in delicate pastry. The unique presentation lets you crack open the top part of the tart with a spoon, revealing a creamy hazelnut and caramel filling. This dessert offers a symphony of flavours, from deep chocolate to nuttiness and buttery sweetness, providing a memorable and indulgent way to end your meal at the restaurant.

Tarta de Queso 4.5/5

The Tarta de Ques ($24) features a creamy Burnt Basque Cheesecake, accompanied by apple for a fruity and slightly tart note, finished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for sweetness. The combination of warm cheesecake and cold ice cream offers a delightful temperature contrast, providing a satisfying and memorable conclusion to our dining experience.

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.


Mosella
Pan Pacific Orchard
10 Claymore Road
Singapore 229540
Tel: +65 6991 6875
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast (Daily): 630am - 1030am
Lunch (Daily): 12pm - 230pm
Dinner (Mon-Thu): 6pm - 10pm
Dinner (Fri-Sat, PH): 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk to Palais Renaissance which is right after Royal Thai Embassy. Cut through Palais Renaissance to the other side of the building. Pan Pacific Orchard is opposite the building. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Poisson @ Bukit Pasoh Road - Newest Seafood Restaurant Taking Guests Around The Globe With Premium Seafood

Opened in March 2022, Poisson is the newest seafood restaurant located in a restored heritage shophouse on the ground floor of Bukit Pasoh Road. The marine-inspired restaurant features an innovative menu inspired by the world's coastal cities with a distinct Poisson twist.

The menu at Poisson is mainly made up of two sections - Cold Stream and Hot Stream. There are referring to small plates and big plates for sharing. There is even an Omakase Platter priced at $360++ per couple.

Smoke Uno 5/5

Making an impressive entry in a smoked jar is the Smoke Uno ($62). Not only is it pretty, but it is deliciously good too. It features a prized assembly of bafun uni, caviar, negitoro, salmon roe, tamago, and seaweed on top of a housemade crispy cereal crunch. Though there are many flavours and textures at play, they complemented one another harmoniously.

Rainbow 4.2/5

The Rainbow ($26) is a refreshing starter whereby cured salmon trout is served with baby beetroot, basil-infused ricotta with the crunch of red radish and pickled fennel.

The Game 4.5/5

A favourite dish is The Game ($24) which features grilled squid marinated in garlic and finishes with a tangy onion and tomato puree. The excellent pairing brightens the enjoyment of the squid.

John 4.2/5

The next seafood dish we had was John ($48). The John Dory is perfectly grilled to showcase the firm-textured fish's moist fine flakes. The white fish is lightly seasoned and paired with basil & tomato vinaigrette to appreciate the buttery fish.

Good Catch Toff 4.5/5

The Good Catch Toff ($35) is a vegetarian dish and the only carbo dish on the menu. The creamy housemade toffee pasta is tossed with luscious hand-peeled mangrove crab and salted bottarga. Both comforting and hearty, this is a must-order dish at Poisson.

Choco De Coco 4.2/5

There are only three choices for dessert on the menu, and we decided to go for the Choco De Coco ($15), comprising 70% warm chocolate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can even find bits of chestnut in the chocolate for that extra textural enjoyment and sweetness.

Besides the food, Poisson also has an extensive wine list hand-pick from the finest French vintages from Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Cote des Blancs, Loire Valley and Provence with a careful focus on organic, sustainable wines from independent boutique wineries. It also offers an impressive sake selection, offering diners an alternative to wines.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Poisson
48 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089859
Tel: +65 62232131
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE,TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sat: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun & Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park. Take Exit 4. Turn left and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tapas 24 @ Robertson Quay - A Special Menu Welcoming Founder Chef Carles Abellan To Singapore

Since its opening in May 2021, Tapas 24 at Robertson Quay, Singapore, has received raving reviews. Tapas 24 is a Barcelonian concept that offers Spanish ingredients in traditional tapas with a twist. Chef Carles Abellan founds it with the original outlet located a stone's throw from Passeig de Gracia, a prime shopping and business area in Barcelona, Spain. Tapas 24 Robertson Quay has put together an exclusive limited-edition menu of new creations from 17 February to 27 February 2022 to celebrate Chef Carles Abellan's long-waited trip from Barcelona to Singapore.

King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa 4.5/5

The luxe version of the King Crab Ensaladilla Rusa is topped with egg yolk, tobiko and miso mayonnaise. I have not eaten anything like it before. It reminds me of our Chinese Sai Pang Xie (Stir Fry Egg White) but an elevated Western version.

McFoie Burger 5/5

This is the only place you can have the McFoie Burger in Singapore, one of the signature dishes that brought Tapas 24 to fame in Barcelona. Unfortunately, it is no longer served in Spain. The Foie patty sandwiched between grilled, soft brioche buns is served with foie gras mousse on the side. Spread the foie gras mousse onto the burger for a hot and cold, umami enjoyment.

Squid Ink Paella 3.8/5

I felt the Squid Ink Paella with slivers of cuttlefish was a bit heavy-handed for it. Though so, the Spanish saffron rice infused with squid ink is deliciously flavourful coupled with delightful bites.

Truffle Spanish Tortilla 4.8/5

Another favourite item on Chef Carles's special menu is the Truffle Spanish Tortilla. I had the potato and egg omelette in Spain but not this version with a molten interior accentuated by the truffle's earthiness. It is hearty and comforting, and most important, deliciously good.

Churros 4.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Churros and Chocolate Cake. My eyes brightened when I saw the churros because they are the thin and airy type I like. It is accompanied by three different dipping sauces - Chocolate, Coffee Toffee, and Mango & Passionfruit. For the chocolate lover, you will love the chocolatey richness.

Chocolate Cake 4/5

In light of Chef Carles’ visit, the restaurant will also present a carte of exclusive ‘Carles Abellán Specials’ (17 to 27 February 2022) and 3-day only (25 February, Friday, 6pm; 26 February, Saturday, 12pm and 6pm; and 27 February, Sunday, 12pm) lunch and dinner set menus that unabashedly showcase the Chef’s inimitable personality. Reservations are for a minimum of two persons and maximum of five and may be made online at https://www.tapas24.sg/ under Reservations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Tapas 24
60 Robertson Quay
#01-04
Singapore 238252
Tel: +65 65136810
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Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop opposite State Courts (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop opposite UE Square (Stop ID 04329). Take bus 64 or 123. Alight 1 stop later. Cross the road and walk to Alkaff Bridge. Cross the bridge and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

3) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave to the river. Turn right and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]