The Library @ Boat Quay - New Bespoke Bar Serving Omakase Cocktails

Tucked away on the second floor of a shophouse along the river in Boat Quay, The Library is a hidden gem that just opened in April, offering a bespoke bar experience that stands out from the crowd. With an omakase-style cocktail concept led by the charismatic mixologist Fire, this intimate bar invites guests to sit back and let their taste buds be surprised. Perfect for an unhurried afternoon escape or a sophisticated evening out, The Library is redefining cocktail culture with creativity, hospitality and a personal touch.

Omakase Special (for 2) 4/5

We started our experience with the Omakase Special for 2 ($38), which was served elegantly in a traditional Chinese teapot with matching cups. After a quick chat about our preferred flavour profile, Fire crafted a Gin-based cocktail layered with fresh watermelon, mint, almond and a splash of Malibu. Refreshing and well-balanced, it was the kind of drink you could sip all day. To top it off, it came with a side of delightful homemade cookies.

Blue Sky 4/5

Next, we tried the Blue Sky ($28), a signature cocktail that immediately transported us to a tropical beach. A blend of Blue Curacao, Yuzu Gin, Bombay Gin, lemon juice and coconut water, Fire 'upgraded' the drink with a swirl of coconut cream, creating a cloud-like effect floating in the blue. Inspired by Thailand's skies, Fire recommended this cocktail to pair with their Thai-Style Top Shell, and the match was spot on.

Omakase Cocktail 4/5

As we were eager for another surprise, we left our next drink in Fire's hands once more. He returned with a fruity Omakase Cocktail ($33) made with rum, pineapple juice, passionfruit, and champagne. Light, bubbly, and tropical, this cocktail paired wonderfully with our ordered fresh oysters — a refreshing combo that made for an indulgent treat.

Japan Hyogo Oysters 4.2/5

Speaking of oysters, the Japan Hyogo Oysters ($28 for 6 pcs) were a standout. They were sweet, plump, and generously sized, served with lemon wedges and Tabasco for those who like a tangy kick. Simple and satisfying, they were the kind of dish that speaks for itself.

Thai-Style Top Shell 4/5

We highly recommend the Thai-Style Top Shell ($22) for something with a spicy punch. Tossed in a fiery garlic sauce and served with crunchy cucumber slices, it delivered both heat and flavour in every bite. Generously portioned, this addictive dish is ideal for sharing over cocktails.

Chicken Gyoza 3.5/5

If you're after something more filling, go for the Chicken Gyoza ($18 for 10 pcs). These golden dumplings had crispy skins and juicy fillings, served with a tangy soy-vinegar dip on the side. They did the job nicely and helped round out our drinking session.

The Library also offers two private rooms — one overlooking the river through large windows and the other tucked deeper inside for a more secluded setting. These spaces are ideal for small gatherings, private parties or business meetups.

The overall vibe here is relaxed and cosy, even on weekday afternoons. The bar is open Monday through Friday, with Wednesdays reserved exclusively for members. For those interested, the members' package starts from $2,000 and includes six bottles of Ballantine's, one bottle of red or white wine, and unlimited oysters from 6 to 9 PM. Members also enjoy access to live music on members-only nights.

Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply someone who enjoys discovering cool hidden spots, The Library offers a delightful escape with bespoke drinks, tasty bites and a welcoming ambience. With Fire at the helm, every visit feels like a personal experience — and we're already looking forward to our next surprise.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Library
41A Boat Quay
Singapore 049830
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Tue, Thu-Fri: 2pm - 12midnight
Sat-Sun: For private events only
(Closed on Wed, for members only)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn right and walk towards the river. At the river, turn left and walk down the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Kaya @ The Standard Singapore - A Bold New Take of Japanese Izakaya

Kaya at The Standard Singapore is a relatively new addition, opening in December 2024. The menu offers sharing plates inspired by familiar Japanese flavours with a fresh, inventive twist — mirrored by the equally creative cocktails from Kaya Bar.

Daikon Slaw 5/5

To begin with, both starters — the Daikon Slaw ($14) and It Is What It Is ($26) — were excellent. The Daikon Slaw delivered the perfect crunch, thanks to the way the white daikon was sliced into bean sprout-like strips and then tossed with charred corn and cucumber slices. A generous heap of crispy onions and ginger added a savoury warmth that balanced the freshness of the dish. Lightly coated in dressing, every bite celebrated the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.

It Is What It Is 5/5

It Is What It Is was a beautifully plated presentation of seasonal sashimi, dressed in a tangy wasabi vinaigrette and topped with dashi jelly and olive dust. The vinaigrette was vibrant and addictive, delivering a mustardy sharpness that enhanced the delicate flavours of the fish. A sprinkle of mustard cress echoed the wasabi notes, while the olive dust — presumably made from dehydrated olives — added a salty umami depth reminiscent of shoyu.

Nikujaga 5/5

For mains, the Nikujaga ($39) impressed me with its twice-cooked short rib, which had a buttery mouthfeel and a robust beefy flavour. An umami-sweet nikutare, shio kombu, and katsuobushi elevated this richness. Pickled shimeji mushrooms added just the right acidity to cut through the fattiness of the meat.

Kani Meshi Nabe 3.8/5

The Kani Meshi Nabe ($65) offered an interesting take on Japanese claypot rice, combining elements of Kani Meshi and Kani Nabe. Served tableside with a drizzle of uni crème mixed into slightly scorched rice, the dish brought together sweet, oceany, and briny notes from the snow crab, ikura, and uni. While the flavours were spot on, I would have preferred the rice to be firmer and less wet, better to emulate the texture of traditional claypot rice.

Sweet Potato Mont Blanc 4/5

Dessert was a tough choice, with every option looking equally tempting. I settled on the Sweet Potato Mont Blanc ($16), which featured a trio of Japanese sweet potatoes: velvety purple potato purée, yellow sweet potato crisps, and savoury-sweet orange sweet potato dust, served together with nutty pistachio sponge and candied chestnuts. I loved the interplay of textures and the depth of flavour, though I felt the generous amount of sweet potato purée could have been better balanced with a bit more of the pistachio sponge.

Niji Negroni

From Kaya Bar, the meal was completed with the Niji Negroni — a vibrant concoction of Sakura tea–infused Roku Gin, Discarded Cascara Sweet Vermouth, yuzu umeshu, barrel-aged Campari, and yuzu bitters, served in a glass rimmed with zero-waste lemongrass powder.

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.


Kaya
The Standard, Singapore
12 Orange Grove Rd
#02-00
Singapore 258353
Tel: 6040 1888
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 630am - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 630am - 11pm

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 down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

Riviera @ One Fullerton - Experience the Diverse Flavours of The Mediterranean

Nestled on the second floor of One Fullerton, Riviera offers more than just a dining experience — it's a visual and culinary journey across the diverse flavours of the Mediterranean. Overlooking the breathtaking Marina Bay waterfront and Singapore's iconic Merlion, Riviera is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, a special celebration, or an indulgent evening of fine dining.

Before dinner, start with a pre-dinner drink at the elegant lounge. With the gorgeous view and luxurious ambience, it's the ideal setting to ease into the evening.

Our visit saw us try the Taste of The Riviera 4-course dinner menu ($128++ per pax). It began with a complimentary trio of bread — charcoal Parmesan Bagel, Brioche, and Sourdough — paired with salted butter. Each had its own texture and flavour profile, which was a great introduction to attention to detail throughout the meal.

AMUSE BOUCHE 4.2/5

We kicked off with two beautifully presented bites: a Crab Tartlet, where the sweetness of the crab is elevated with pink peppercorn, and a Butternut Squash sphere that bursts with sweet flavour sitting atop a savoury parmesan base for that satisfying crunch. These are small bites with big impressions.

ROSSO DI MAZARA 5/5

A standout starter, the Rosso Di Mazara features Sicilian Red Prawn Carpaccio seasoned with hazelnut vinaigrette. The red prawns were supremely sweet and melt-in-the-mouth, perfectly complemented by seasonal white asparagus. It was a refreshing yet luxurious opening to the meal.

L'OURSIN 4.8/5

This dish showcases Riviera's creative flair. Bafun uni crowns a bed of Black Bean Tea Pudding with saffron nage, delivering a dish full of surprises. The pudding has a unique texture and earthy flavour, unlike anything we've had before — in the best way possible. It is complex, layered, and sophisticated.

LE CANARD DE CHALLANS 4.5/5

For my main, I chose the Le Canard de Challans. The Challans Duck Breast was cooked beautifully, seasoned just enough to let its natural flavours shine through. Accompanied by a rich bordelaise sauce, the dish felt refined and comforting.

LA TRUITE 4.8/5

My dining partner opted for the La Truite, a filleted French Rainbow Trout topped with smoked caviar and a crisp piece of skin. Served with a smooth petit pois velouté and charred baby endive, it was a well-balanced dish with elegance and complexity.

“MONS” SELECTION OF MATURED CHEESES 4/5

You can add a cheese course for $38. The Mons Cheese Platter includes a variety of soft and hard cheeses, ideal for cheese lovers looking to extend their Mediterranean journey. It's a great way to slow down the meal before dessert.

CANNOLIS AU CHOCOLAT 4.8/5

I've never been a fan of Cannoli because of the hard shell, but Riviera's version won me over. Infused with star anise, the shell is perfectly crisp, and when paired with the Jivara orange chocolate mousse and Grand Marnier sauce, it becomes a divine dessert experience. A creative spin that's both nostalgic and exciting.

As tradition goes, we ended the meal with a selection of petit fours – a sweet little finale that tied everything together.

Riviera isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to savour life. Riviera delivers on every front with breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases both Mediterranean tradition and modern refinement. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, Riviera makes the experience worth it.

Enjoy 15% off any dinner set menu when you book via Riviera.sg and mention the promo code "DTXRIVIERA" in the comment section of the booking. This offer is valid until 31 May 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in one of Singapore's most scenic and delicious dining destinations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Riviera
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#02-06
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6690 7564
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi @ Jiak Chuan Road - A Blend of Artisan Pizzas and World-Class Cocktails

Nestled among the charming heritage shophouses on Jiak Chuan Road, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is a restaurant helmed by renowned bartender/entrepreneur Giancarlo Mancino and Master Pizzaiolo Antonio Brancato. Here, authentic Italian pizzas meet innovative world-class cocktails, creating a unique dining experience.

Bruschette - The Classic 4.5/5

We began with Bruschette - The Classic ($16), a timeless appetiser that highlights simplicity at its best. Sourdough bread is topped with oven-baked tomatoes, garlic olive oil, and fresh basil. The vibrant sweetness of the tomatoes combined with the earthy notes of olive oil makes this a refreshing and satisfying start to the meal.

Bruscette - Cetara 4/5

Next was the Bruschette - Cetara ($20), featuring lemon zest butter, Cetara anchovies, and caper flowers. While the buttery richness felt slightly overpowering for some diners (a few were seen scraping off excess butter), the overall balance of zesty, salty, and tangy notes worked well for me.

Rocco 4.2/5

The Rocco ($24) is a Southern Italian-style pizza baked in a small pan at over 250°C for 10-12 minutes. The result is a puffed dough with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Topped simply with mozzarella, thinly sliced potatoes, and fresh rosemary, each bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavours.

Caponata 4/5

The Caponata ($36) is a vegan pizza topped with tomato sauce, Sicilian-style agrodolce vegetables (zucchini, aubergine, and capsicum), and homemade onion purée. While the combination isn't traditionally associated with pizza, the balance of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours worked beautifully together.

Rustica 4.2/5

From the more inventive "Le Antonio" section of the menu, the Rustica ($38) is a standout. Created by Chef Antonio a decade ago, this pizza features tomato sauce, fresh salsiccia (fennel pork sausage), smoked Scamorza cheese, radicchio, and rosemary. The play on textures from the smoky cheese and shredded raw chicory elevate this dish, making it a creative yet comforting option.

Melanzana 4/5

Another innovative offering is the Melanzana ($38), a pizza topped with oven-baked eggplants, smoked Scamorza cheese, mint, and peperoncino oil. Specifically crafted for Singapore, the aubergine purée adds a creamy depth, while the fresh mint offers a surprising burst of flavour, giving it a refreshing touch.

Margherita Dolce Fried 3/5

The Margherita Dolce Fried ($22) offers a playful, vegan twist on the classic pizza. It features sweetened house tomato sauce, soy cream in place of mozzarella, and a mint reduction instead of basil. While the dough's texture was enjoyable, the overly sweet sauce was not to my liking, making it less appealing overall.

Classic Panettone 3.5/5

We ended the meal with the Classic Panettone ($20), served with a velvety vermouth zabaglione made using Mancino Vermouth. The dessert is reminiscent of bread pudding, offering a warm and comforting end to the meal, though it could have used a touch more excitement in flavour to leave a lasting impression.

ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi masterfully blends tradition and creativity, offering pizzas that range from classic Italian styles to bold, modern creations. While a couple of dishes missed the mark slightly, the overall experience was delightful, particularly when paired with their expertly crafted cocktails. For pizza enthusiasts and those seeking a unique pizza experience, ANTO Pizza E Aperitivi is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


ANTO Pizzeria E Aperitivi
2 Jiak Chuan Road
Singapore 089260
Tel: +65 9689 6869
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 330pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road and turn left onto Jiak Chuan Road. Walk down Jiak Chuan Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Ginger.Lily @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - Discover The New Third Chapter of Ginger.Lily’s Storybook-inspired Teatime Soirée

Ginger.Lily at Hilton Singapore Orchard is back with the third chapter of its storybook-inspired afternoon tea series, showcasing a refined fusion of Executive Pastry Chef Cindy Khoo’s French pastry expertise and passion for Japanese artistry.

Ginger.Lily Afternoon Tea 3.8/5

This afternoon tea, priced at $68++ per person with a minimum of two diners, includes a glass of cocktail or mocktail and two pots of tea.

Two seatings are available daily: 1pm to 3pm, and 3.30pm to 5.30pm.

Prologue

Start your experience with a mocktail or cocktail. The Sparkling Peach Mocktail offers a refreshing blend of Moscato grapes and natural peach juice, while the Yuzu Breeze cocktail intrigues with a combination of Cirka vodka, whipping cream, yuzu essence, and soda water.

We were spoilt for choice for our pots of tea, from its extensive tea list which includes oolong tea, black tea, white tea, green tea, and non-caffeinated herbal tea.

Savouries I

The first savouries, the Truffle Croque Monsieur Twist and Mediterranean Pesto Twist were served in crisp pastry shells. The Mediterranean Pesto Twist stood out with its well-balanced blend of sweetness from sun-dried tomatoes, nutty truffle cream cheese, and herbaceous pesto.

Savouries II

Next, the Basque Brioche with Smoked Duck was presented, offering house-smoked duck on red pesto-infused smoked paprika brioche.

The Miso Brioche with Scallops followed, showcasing Japanese flavours with wasabi-yuzu mayo, tobiko, katsuobushi, and white miso brioche.

Pre-dessert

Before the main sweets course, we were treated to a Pre-dessert: Poached Pears in Blackcurrant Wine, creatively and deliciously paired with sour cream ice cream and mint jelly.

Sweets

The highlight of the tea was the elegant turquoise drawer of sweets. It contained a total of eight exquisite desserts and two types of scones, which are recommended to be savoured from top to bottom.

Pistachio “Flan Parisien” with Orange Blossom

Violet Chocolate Gateau

We started with standouts from the first two rows, such as the Ginger.Lily Chouquettes incorporated flavours from the restaurant's signature tea blend and the Violet Chocolate Gateau, combining banana jam, milk chocolate mousse, and a tangy raspberry finish.

Ruby Baba

However, the last two rows of desserts, such as the Ruby Baba and Botanique En Fleurs 68% Macadamia Cookies, paled in comparison. The Ruby Baba was a little too dry, while the cookies were much sweeter than we would have liked.

Tahitian Vanilla & Jersey Oat Scones

The tea concludes with Tahitian Vanilla & Jersey Oat Scones, served alongside mixed berries compote, orange cinnamon confit, and crème fraîche.

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.


Ginger.Lily
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 5
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 6831 6273
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Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am to 1am

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 destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]