Aniba @ Battery Road - Revamped Menu and New Cocktails Lineup

Aniba, located at Battery Road, has introduced a revamped menu showcasing inventive seafood and vegetable-forward dishes, blending Asian, Middle Eastern, and European influences. The new lineup also includes a selection of curated cocktails to complement the dining experience.

Pani Puri 3.8/5

For starters, the Pani Puri ($9 per piece), inspired by Indian street food, was elevated with yoghurt-yuzu foam, candied mandarin peel, and a slice of hamachi. This bite-sized snack delivered a refreshing tang and creamy mouthfeel.

Tartlet 4/5

The Tartlet ($12), a crispy shell filled with smoked trout, miso labneh, cucumber, and green peas, offered a well balance of umami and textural contrast, whetting my appetite.

Fatayer 4/5

Fatayer ($10) came hot and cheesy, featuring a classic combination of feta, spinach and leeks, served with a punchy shot of Hamusta soup.

House Baked Breads with Dips 4.5/5

Eggplant 4/5

A highlight was the House Baked Breads ($18), featuring Jerusalem Bagel with Labneh and Za'atar, Kubaneh with Crushed Tomatoes and Schug, and Focaccia with Tahini and Matbucha. The Kubaneh, a soft, sesame-studded braided bread, stood out with its slight buttery sweetness, punctuated by a hint of salt. The accompanying dips, notably the herbaceous Schug and fruity-sweet Matbucha, were delicious. I recommend pairing these breads with Eggplant ($29), a dip similar to the classic Babaghanoush.

Tabuleh 4.5/5

The warm breads were great accompaniments to the two cold dishes we had. Tabuleh ($28) was refreshing with yellowtail ceviche, bulgur, fresh herbs, and pomegranate, brought together with yoghurt and nutty tahini.

Hamachi 4/5

Cauliflower 4/5

A serving of vibrant tomato-capsicum salsa profiled the freshness and delightful mouthfeel of the Hamachi ($29). Other sharing plates we tried include a crowd-pleasing Cauliflower ($27), which was surprisingly indulgent with rich Parsley Pesto, Tahini and curry oil, with a hint of tartness lent by tamarind.

Toro 4.5/5

Toro ($42) was memorable with fluffy pancake-like Lahuch Tacos, which paired perfectly with the lean tuna. The slather of creamy Jalapeño Aioli on the taco boosted an even more satisfying mouthfeel. The acidity of the pickled celery and the sharp shallots and herbs provided a good balance to its flavours.

Cod 3/5

Under Hot selections, we had the Cod ($64), served with Smoked Freekeh and Greens Coulis. The cod was tender and flaky but slightly on the saltier side.

Malabi 4/5

Semolina Cake Bites 4.5/5

Desserts were delightful. Basbusa features soft Semolina Cake Bites soaked with orange blossom water. They were divine with elegant Cheesecake Chantilly and Pistachio Ganache. Malabi was a wobbly milk pudding zesty with spices compote and berries.

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.


Aniba
6 Battery Road
#05-03
Singapore 049909
Tel: +65 9668 8036
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Operating Hours:
Mon-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 12midnight
Fri: 12pm - 3pm; 6pm - 12am
Sat: 830pm - 2am
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

FLUTES @ Guoco Midtown - Ushers in New Era at Iconic Heritage Venue

With 20 years of history, the award-winning and iconic FLUTES embarks on a new chapter with its relocation to Midtown House, the historic former Beach Road Station. The new space is elegant with a brand of timeless charm, and the design pays homage to the building’s colonial history, including thoughtful touches such as louvred panel windows. FLUTES's culinary direction is guided by Australian Executive Chef Peter Rollinson. The menu is European at heart, but it uses fresh Australian native ingredients and some local influences.

Snacks 4.2/5

We were welcomed with a pink panther guava mocktail, a cheeky reference to Midtown House's police station history. Snacks followed, consisting of three delectable bites: a smokey grilled skewer of BBQ Yumbah Abalone and kombu butter topped with shaved truffle, a warm and moreish Potato Croquette with Bafun Uni and Oscietra Caviar, and a more adventurous Kangaroo Tartare with beetroot and goat's cheese.

Sald of Alaskan King Crab 4.8/5

The first course was a beautiful Salad of Alaskan King Crab, rolled within delicate layers of velvety avocado, topped with a row of Ikura pearls and accented with horseradish and dill. Light, fresh and exquisitely balanced, this was an absolute pleasure to eat.

Aquna Murray Cod 4.5/5

The second course was also something from the sea — an excellent piece of Aquna Murray Cod with firm yet pleasingly flaky flesh. The skin was very crispy to contrast with the flesh, and the fish was served with a medley of spring vegetables and some smoked mussel butter.

Celeriac & Manjimup Truffle 4.5/5

The third course, Celeriac & Manjimup Truffle, was unique. The presentation reminds me of Kouign Amann! Incredibly, they managed to slice such thin layers of celeriac without breaking it. The entire roll of celeriac is made from a single unbroken long slice. The edges are crispy for a slight crunch and coated with a bit of sweetness. It is served with langoustine on the side, and Manjimup truffle shavings. I loved that vegetables were the highlight here, and the langoustine was a complement.

Gin & Tonic Granita 4.5/5

As a palate cleanser, we were served a Gin & Tonic Granita with kiwi & apple. As you probably already guessed, this was icy, sparkly and refreshing. The botanical flavours of the gin and tonic granita go well with the zesty fruitiness of kiwi and apple.

BBQ Zabuton Satsuma Gyu Skewer 5/5

The fourth course was a melt-in-your-mouth tender and flavourful BBQ Zabuton Satsuma Gyu Skewer. Slices of buttery, well-marbled beef are threaded onto a skewer and grilled to perfection. It was served with a light sauce that enhances the flavour of the wagyu and some beetroot slices for balance. There is also a welcome addition of some spice in the form of chilli padi! This creation is delicious and a convincing highlight of the tasting menu.

Jerusalem Artichoke Ice Cream 4.2/5

For the pre-dessert, I was excited to try the Jerusalem Artichoke Ice Cream. I have only had artichoke ice cream once before in Copenhagen, and I was happy to taste this unique confection again. With Manjimup black truffle and caramelised milk crumbs, it is subtly sweet yet also savoury, nutty, and earthy at the same time. It is certainly a departure from the usual ice cream experience, offering diners something more exploratory.

Strawberry & Lime Pavlova 4.2/5

Dessert was a bright summer treat of Strawberry & Lime Pavlova with Mascarpone and Calamansi Sorbet. There is a light and airy meringue, fluffy whipped mascarpone cream and lots of fresh strawberry cubes to balance the tartness of the calamansi sorbet.

Sweet Treats 4/5

Post-dinner, we were presented with Sweet Treats in a very cute box that looked like a fairytale book. Inside, there were Kaya Soy Bonbons, Yuzu Jube, and Rojak Flower Macarons. Playful local flavours rounded off the evening, and we finished everything even though we were stuffed!

The Degustation Dinner Menu is priced at $178++ per person, a showcase of Chef Peter's artistry and the season's finest produce. It takes diners through a repertoire of classic, harmonious flavours that delight the palate, executed with seasonal ingredients and skilful technique. However, Chef Peter also introduces a few more unique and innovative items to surprise and intrigue diners, adding an element of creativity to the dining experience — a delightful dinner that I will remember.

Wine lovers will also be pleased to know that FLUTES's wine list has been expanded to include a selection of sustainable and biodynamic wines. The wine list spans over 300 excellent wines and supports environmentally responsible vineyards. With a knowledgeable in-house sommelier, guests can be assured of a perfect wine pairing to complete the dining experience.

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.


FLUTES
Guoco Midtown
120 Beach Road
#01-02
Singapore 189769
Tel: +65 63388770
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. At Beach Road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station Take Exit F. Walk straight down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A New Chapter With A New Interior & Menu

In the blink of an eye, Zafferano has opened in Singapore for ten years. To mark its tenth year, the restaurant underwent a renovation, spotting a brighter and more spacious interior. It has also been renamed as Altro Zafferano.

Italian Aperitivo 4/5

I have the 4-course Experience Menu ($148++), which comprises a starter, pasta, a main course and a dessert. In addition, every diner will be welcomed with a complimentary Italian Aperitivo. It is a vibrant amuse bouche of Castelvetrano olive foam, martini gel, diced red capsicum, tarallo cube, Toritto almond, and tuna cream.

Hokkaido Scallop 4/5

For my starter, I picked the Hokkaido Scallop paired with smoked pear, potato mousse and guanciale. A light starter freshened up by the smoked Comice pear for that lift in sweetness.

Wild Red Bream Crudo 4.2/5

My dining partner had the Wild Red Bream Crudo with Tomato, Basil, and Frisella Bread. A beautiful sashimi-grade white fish complemented with vibrant flavours.

House-made Ravioli 4/5

For my pasta dish, I decided to go for House-made Ravioli, which has a unique shape that I have not seen or eaten before. It is stuffed with minced wagyu beef genovese and served with anchovy colatura, grana padano fondue, and beef and onion consomme. It is then finished with anchovy slices to add depth to the flavour.

Tagliolini with Langoustine Carpaccio 4.5/5

While I had the ravioli, my friend went for the house-made Tagliolini with Langoustine Carpaccio marinated with Amalfi lemon Garum and topped with sea grape. It was an excellent choice, and I would highly recommend it too. The pasta was cooked to a delightful bite and tossed in a refreshing zesty sauce.

Roaring Forties Lamb 4.2/5

Moving to our mains, I opted for the Roaring Forties Lamb. It comes in two cuts - lamb rack and lamb neck. The lamb rack is grilled over charcoal while the lamb neck is braised in Aglianico. They are paired with potatoes, sheep ricotta sfogliatella, green peas and finished with lamb jus.

Silver Cod 4/5

While I had the lamb, my friend went for the Silver Cod with Peperone Crusco and Mussels Veloute. The huge piece of Chilean seabass fillet was perfectly cooked. It was chunky yet moist, with cruso pepper puree in between. The silver cod is served in a creamy mussels veloute paired with yellow capsicum cream and mini red pepper stuffed with cod filling.

Amalfi Lemon Sponge Cake 4.2/5

I had the Amalfi Lemon Sponge Cake with Amalfi lemon curd, Amalfi lemon pulp, and white chocolate chantilly for dessert. I love sour, so this is to my liking for its light and tangy finish, served with limoncello granita.

Giffoni Hazelnut 4.5/5

Espresso 4.2/5

Other dessert options include the Giffoni Hazelnut and Espresso. The Giffoni Hazelnut comes in the form of a multi-textured sphere with Valrhona Guanaja 70% chocolate and fresh raspberry to cut through the richness. For the coffee drinker, you will enjoy the Espresso Mousse resting on top of an espresso sponge cake paired with Clementine sorbet to give it a touch of acidity.

Petit Four 3.5/5

Our 4-course dinner ended with a trio of Petit Four for a sweet ending. There is an interesting fact when dining at Altro Zafferano. It is cheaper to order the set menu than the a la carte item. I also checked that they would be serving the same portion, be it a set menu or a la carte.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

JIDAI Restaurant @ Circular Road - Enjoy An Affordable 8 Course French Japanese Omakase

Located along Circular Road, the new 30-seater Izakaya restaurant JIDAI Restaurant specialises in Japanese-French Fusion dishes. Helmed by Chef Darwin Wong, JIDAI has recently launched an 8-Course Omakase dining experience at $88/pax.

Chile Uni 3.5/5

We began the omakase with a starter of Chile Uni with caviar and deep sea crab miso wrapped with crunchy green onions. However, we felt there was too much caviar on the uni, and together with the green onions, the uni taste was barely detectable in the wrap.

Botan Ebi and Sea Bream 4/5

Next, we had the fresh sashimi with Botan Ebi and Sea Bream.

Ponzu Sea Whelk 3.5/5

The Ponzu Sea Whelk, serrved on a bed of sea whelk shells, has a nice chewy texture. Best paired with the fermented mushroom sauce provided.

Engawa 3.8/5

The next poached dish is Engawa, with a thick cauliflower puree and red lumpfish caviar. We enjoyed the tender Engawa slice, though we felt that the cauliflower puree could be more flavourful.

Soup 3.8/5

A flavourful onion beef dashi is poured over the A5 Wagyu slices and mushrooms. We enjoyed the richness of the dashi used, though it was a tad salty for our liking.

Miso Atlantic Cod 4.2/5

As for the mains, you can take your pick of Miso Atlantic Cod or Lobster Charzuke at a supplement of $18. We had the former, which features Miso Atlantic Cod grilled and doused with an umami caviar creme, topped with ikura and paired with perfectly charred broccolini.

Mini Cones Chous Chous 4/5

For desserts, we had the Mini Cones Chous Chous. It is filled with crunchy chocolate ganache and was small enough to be eaten in a bite. It is a simple sweet treat towards the end of the meal.

Champagne Gelato 4/5

We ended the omakase on a sweet note with the Champagne Gelato, which comes with sake jello and crisps. It was sweet with a nice champagne flavour, a refreshing course after all the heavy-tasting dishes.

Diners can also elevate their dining experience with an alcohol pairing of Junmai Daiginjo at ($88/bottle). You can go even fancier with the 10-course omakase ($108++), but for something more affordable, they also serve ala carte dishes and set lunch menu.

Words and photos 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.


[CLOSED]
JIDAI Restaurant
9 Circular Rd
Singapore 049365
Tel: +65 81891849
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 5pm - 1030pm
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road. Walk to Upper Circular Road. Walk down the road to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Resplendent Reunions For Two Or Intimate Gathering With Family And Loved Ones

Usher in the year of Tiger with a luxurious selection of Lunar New Year delicacies and prosperity prix-fixe menus at Man Fu Yuan from 11 January to 15 February 2022. Upholding the tradition of masterfully crafted dishes, Executive Chinese Chef Aaron Tan and his team showcase six delightful prix-fixe menus and a collection of speciality dishes steeped in auspiciousness. Diners can select and savour menus that suit their palates in the cosy alcoves in the dining hall or comfort of private and semi-private, whether it is a dining experience for two or an intimate gathering with family and loved ones dining rooms for up to five guests.

Full of Abundance Yusheng 4.2/5

We started with the Full of Abundance Yusheng, tailored for the individual to lo hei at their seat. It comes with Hokkaido scallops, sea urchin, Kaluga caviar and salmon paired with a refreshing and fruity pomegranate dressing.

Double-boiled Giant Fish Broth 5/5

Cooked till milky and creamy is the luxe Double-boiled Giant Fish Broth with Bird's Nest, King Tuber Mushroom, Yunnan Cured Ham, Fish Maw in Coconut Husk. You can even have the coconut flesh after finishing the soup. 

Roasted-smoked Duck with "Ban-Zhang" Tea Leaves 4.5/5

The Roasted-smoked Duck with "Ban-Zhang" Tea Leaves is tender and juicy, with a beautiful aroma.

Abundance Treasure Pot 4.8/5

A signature at Man Fu Yuan is their Abundance Treasure Pot brimming with over 18 premium ingredients such as 8-head abalone, Canadian lobster, Hokkaido scallops, pig’s trotters and Yunnan pleurotus tuber fungus.

Pan-fried Atlantic Cod Fillet with Premium XO Scallop Sauce 4/5

Usually, I have steamed cod, but Pan-fried Atlantic Cod Fillet is a good change from the usual. Interestingly, the cod fillet is paired with premium XO scallop sauce, which is another new way of enjoying the buttery fish for me.

Man Fu Yuan Classic Salted Baked Sakura Chicken 4.5/5

Requiring a minimum of three days advance order is the Man Fu Yuan Classic Salted Baked Sakura Chicken. It is so tender that the meat fell off the bone with ease.

Braised Lobster with Superior Crab Meat Egg White Sauce 4/5

This year, a new creation is the Braised Lobster with Superior Crab Meat Egg White Sauce paired with Hong Kong chye sim, crispy vermicelli and ikura. The highlight has to be the vermicelli, while the lobster is just a calefare to the dish.

Roasted Suckling Pig 4.5/5

Another signature item at Man Fu Yuan is the Roasted Suckling Pig stuffed with fragrant glutinous rice. You get a trio of enjoyment - crackling skin, succulent pork and sticky rice.

Double-boiled Pumpkin with Almond Cream 4.5/5

Wrapping up our meal is the Double-boiled Pumpkin with Almond Cream, Yacon and premium Sarawak Bird's Nest. A fitting chill dessert that is light and refreshing to cut all the richness from the festive savoury dishes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]