Racines @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Feasts Of Fortune to Usher in Year of the Snake

This Lunar New Year, Sofitel Singapore City Centre celebrates the season of prosperity and reunion with thoughtfully curated culinary experiences, blending traditional flavours with modern touches. Over at Racines, the Fortune Set Lunches and Dinners curated are 4-course set lunch and 5-course set dinner, perfect for gatherings with loved ones or even business lunches.

Bountiful 8-Grain Yu Sheng (Tasting portion) 4/5

Begin the feast with an auspicious toss of Yu Sheng. The Bountiful 8-Grain Yu Sheng (Vegetarian) ($48/$88/$138), a new creation for the season, symbolizes an abundant harvest. Designed with health-conscious diners in mind, it features a wholesome mix of grains and seeds, including black-eyed beans, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, and millet, offering delightful textures.

Double-boiled Chicken Soup 5/5

The next course, a Double-boiled Chicken Soup with Dried Scallop and Cordycep Blossoms, impressed with its comforting sweetness and deep flavours, making it a crowd favourite.

Pen Cai 4.5/5

Another quintessential dish, Chef Andrew's Pen Cai, combines an opulent array of ingredients, such as abalone, scallops, prawns, pork belly, duck, pork tendon, fish maw, braised sea cucumber, fatt choy, and truffle. The sauce had a nice, savoury depth of flavour without being overly rich.

Deep-fried Tiger Prawn in Curry Garlic Aioli 3/5

The Deep-fried Tiger Prawn in Curry Garlic Aioli added a modern flair to the menu. While the batter was slightly greasy, the prawn itself was succulent, with a satisfying texture.

Hakka-style Pork Belly with Taro 4.5/5

The Hakka-style Pork Belly with Taro, a nostalgic recipe passed down in Chef Andrew's family since the 1970s, exuded a sense of homely comfort. Its richness was best enjoyed with a warm bowl of white rice.

Cod Fish with Yuzu Butter Sauce 4/5

Another dish that offered a contemporary twist to a Lunar New Year staple was the Cod Fish with Yuzu Butter Sauce. The fish was perfectly moist and flaky, while the yuzu butter sauce added a delightful balance of richness and citrusy brightness.

Hor Yip Fan 5/5

The highlight was the most aesthetically pleasing Hor Yip Fan (Steamed Waxed Meat Rice and Chinese Sausage in Lotus Leaf). This classic, traditionally made with glutinous rice, was reimagined with a lighter blend of fragrant rice and glutinous rice. Steamed with three waxed meats — pork, pork belly, and liver — for two hours, the dish was flavourful, texturally delightful, and certainly moreish!

Duo of Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet & Fried Nian Gao 3.5/5

Dessert was a Duo of Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet & Fried Nian Gao, delivering a delightful hot-and-cold contrast. While the crust of the Nian Gao was slightly thicker than expected, its chewy, sweet interior was satisfying. The refreshing bergamot sorbet rounded off the dessert beautifully. Osmanthus Jelly with Bergamot Sorbet

4-Course Fortune Set Lunch 13 January to 12 February 2025 12pm to 3pm $68++ per person
5-Course Fortune Set Dinner 13 January to 12 February 2025 6pm to 10pm $88++ per person

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.


Racines
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Level 5
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 64285000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 7am - 1030am, 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tien Court Restaurant @ Copthorne King’s Hotel - Serves up the Most Auspicious of Teochew Traditions for Chinese New Year 2025

Celebrate the Year of the Snake in style with Tien Court’s auspicious Chinese New Year set menus. Helmed by the talented Chef Lui Wang Wing Keung, Tien Court promises a culinary journey steeped in Teochew traditions. We were privileged to preview the Bountiful Set Menu (priced at $148++ per person, minimum 2 persons), one of five curated menus designed to usher in prosperity and good fortune.

Superior Trio Combination Platter 3.8/5

Our feast began with a delightful Superior Trio of Combination Platter. While the platter included two beautifully fried items, the highlight for us was undoubtedly the marinated cherry tomatoes. Bursting with a refreshing plum flavour and a subtle hint of alcohol, possibly plum wine, these tomatoes offered a tangy and slightly sweet kick that whetted our appetites perfectly.

Braised Fish Maw in Golden Pumpkin Soup 4.5/5

Served sizzling in a hot stone bowl, this Braised Fish Maw in Golden Pumpkin Soup was the star of the meal. The tender fish maw, perfectly braised to achieve a melt-in-the-mouth texture and paired wonderfully with the slightly sweet and velvety pumpkin soup. Each spoonful was a harmonious blend of flavour and texture, leaving us craving more.

Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce 4/5

For those hesitant about sea cucumber, the Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce might just change your mind. The sea cucumber is deep-fried to perfection, resulting in an unexpected crispy texture that contrasts delightfully with the rich oyster sauce. This innovative preparation was a pleasant surprise and an absolute treat.

Steamed Cod Fish with Golden Garlic 4/5

A Chinese New Year essential, fish symbolizes abundance and prosperity (年年有鱼). Tien Court's version features a succulent cod fillet steamed to perfection and topped with aromatic golden garlic sauce. This Steamed Cod Fish with Golden Garlic offers tender, flaky fish paired beautifully with the sauce. We highly recommend this with a bowl of fragrant white rice to soak up every bit of flavour.

Braised Ee Fu Noodles with King Prawn in XO Sauce 4/5

The last savoury course concludes with satisfaction in the Braised Ee Fu Noodles with King Prawn in XO Sauce. The perfectly cooked Ee Fu noodles, infused with the umami-rich flavours of XO sauce, were paired with a plump and juicy king prawn. The slight hint of spice added a touch of intrigue, leaving us wishing for a larger portion.

Chilled Mango Sago Pomelo accompanied Steamed ‘Nian Gao” with Peanut 3.5/5

Dessert consisted of two classic favourites. The Chilled Mango Sago Pomelo offered a refreshing citrusy sweetness, while the Steamed Nian Gao coated in crushed peanuts provided a traditional festive touch. Though both were well-executed, they lacked the wow factor of the preceding savoury dishes.

Set Menus for Every Occasion
Tien Court offers a range of set menus to cater to different group sizes and budgets:

• Sweet Happiness Set: $568++ for 4 persons
• Spring Blossom Set: $1,388++ for 8 persons / $1,728++ for 10 persons
• Delightful Blossom Reunion Set: $1,888++ per table of 10 persons

These luxurious options include highlights such as Prosperity Smoked Salmon Yu Sheng, South African 6-Head Abalone, Lobster, and Bird’s Nest for a truly opulent feast. For vegetarian diners, the Vegetarian Set ($138++ per person) offers an equally indulgent experience.

Ala Carte Specialties
Add to your celebrations with Tien Court’s signature à la carte dishes, including:

• Teochew Golden Fortune Roasted Suckling Pig
• Signature Braised White Teat Sea Cucumber in Oyster Sauce
• Teochew Braised Sliced Irish Silver Hill Duck

Promotions and Availability
Chinese New Year offerings are available from 10 January to 12 February 2025. Enjoy an Early Bird promotion of 20% off for orders placed between 1–17 January 2025. Orders from 18 January onwards are entitled to 10% off.

Tien Court will remain open throughout Chinese New Year, with two seatings available on Chinese New Year’s Eve (28 January 2025). For more information, please visit https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/singapore/copthorne-kings-hotel/tien-court-restaurant/

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


Tien Court Restaurant
Copthorne King's Hotel
403 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169631
Tel: +65 63183193/ 63183198
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk straight down Havelock Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to bus stop opposite opposite Holiday Inn Atrium (Stop ID 06149). Take bus number 51, 64, 123, or 186. Alight 1 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Embrace the Joyous Season and Endless Celebrations with Extravagant Buffet Spreads

Embrace the joyous season with endless celebrations and a luxurious dining experience at Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore. From 21 November 2024, indulge in a feast curated by Executive Chef Andy Oh and his talented culinary team. The buffet showcases a harmonious blend of festive classics and international delights, featuring premium seafood, succulent roasts, and the season's signature favourites.

The Seafood on Ice station boasts an impressive selection, including Boston Lobsters, Freshly Shucked Oysters, Prawns, Pacific Clams, Sea Conch, and Crawfish. The lobster meat is so sweet, but the oysters are a little less plump than expected.

Edge never disappoints when it comes to its cheese offerings. A standout for us was the Port Salut, a soft cheese with a smoky undertone that makes it an irresistible treat. We also discovered the Red Pesto Tomme, which adds an intriguing twist to the classic Tomme with its vibrant pesto-infused flavour.

A highlight of the buffet is the Miso Cod Fish. While it may not rival Nobu's version, this dish impressed me with its soft texture, fresh quality, and delicate marinade. Served alongside tender okra, it's a must-try!

Meat lovers are in for a treat with an extensive selection of festive specialities. The Traditional Roasted Turkey Breast is perfectly cooked to retain its juiciness, while the Maple-Glazed Gammon Ham offers a delightful balance of sweet and savoury flavours. Other highlights include the Roasted Whole Lamb, which is tender and aromatic, and the succulent Roasted Pork Porchetta with its crispy crackling. For a touch of indulgence, the Australian Black Angus Beef Tomahawk steals the spotlight with its rich, smoky flavours. Pair these dishes with a variety of sauces such as apple sauce, olive sauce, and red wine sauce to elevate your dining experience.

The Live Grill Station offers an exciting array of freshly prepared delights. From the smoky and flavourful Salt & Pepper Squid to the tender Marinated Angus Beef Short Rib, every bite is a testament to the chefs’ skill. The Grilled Chicken, seasoned to perfection, is a crowd favourite, while the variety of homemade sausages ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Western classics are another highlight of the buffet. The Slow-Baked Fish Filet in Minestrone Mussels Broth is light yet satisfying, combining the delicate flavours of the sea with a comforting broth. Meanwhile, the Oven-Baked Chicken with Cacciatore and Olive provides a hearty and flavourful option.

Pizza lovers can indulge in freshly hand-stretched pizzas with a range of toppings. It's worth a slice if you have a stomach for some carbs!

Indian station featuring flavoursome curries and traditional favourites such as Butter Chicken, Papadam, Naan and Fish Tikka from the Tandoori oven.

The buffet's Asian and local offerings are equally impressive. At the Indian station, diners can savour robust curries and other traditional dishes. Local favourites include the iconic Singapore Chilli Crab, paired with fluffy mantou for dipping, as well as a variety of double-boiled soups and stir-fried dishes. The Asian Live Station features piping hot bowls of Laksa, a selection of Yong Tau Foo Soup, and the fragrant Penang Wok-Hei Fried Kway Teow. For those who love roasted delicacies, there are Peking Duck, Roasted Chicken, Pork Belly, and Honey Glazed Char Siew.

No meal at Edge is complete without a visit to the dessert station. The festive spread includes Christmas Log Cakes, Verrines such as Panna Cotta and Durian Pengat, a decadent Chocolate Fountain, and a selection of gelato and sorbet. For those with a penchant for local sweets, the Nyonya Kueh and hot desserts like Cheng Teng provide a comforting end to the meal.

An exciting addition is the Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream, made fresh on the spot. The Milo flavour is a standout. Just be sure to enjoy it quickly, as it melts fast!

The praline selection is a delightful surprise, with unique flavours like Mango, Cranberry, Strawberry, and Bandung. Each piece is exquisitely crafted, offering a burst of flavour we absolutely love.

The entire restaurant is beautifully decorated with Christmas-themed décor, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. With big groups of diners filling the space, the celebrations felt vibrant and joyful. Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.

The buffet is available daily for lunch and dinner, starting from $88++ per person. For more information and a detailed menu, visit https://www.menu-ppsin.panpacific.com/edge-festive-2024

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


Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade MRT (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 destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Carlitos @ Joo Chiat Road - New Authentic Neighbourhood Tapas Bar

Joo Chiat has welcomed a taste of Spain with Carlitos, a neighbourhood tapas bar helmed by Chef Carlos Montobbio. The restaurant offers over 30 types of tapas inspired by Chef Carlos' personal food memories across Spanish cities. From timeless classics to innovative creations, Carlitos captures the essence of Spanish gastronomy in a vibrant, relaxed setting.

Gilda Pintxo 4/5

We began our dinner with the Gilda Pintxo ($10), a skewer of smoked sardines paired with pickles and green olives. For those who might shy away from the bold flavour of sardines, the pickles and olives cleverly balance the dish, adding a tangy brightness that complements the smokiness.

Pulpo La Coruna (Spanish Octopus) 4.5/5

The Pulpo La Coruna ($20) was a crowd-pleaser. Tender Spanish octopus, perfectly cooked, is enhanced by a sprinkle of paprika, adding a mildly sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy touch that elevates the dish.

Tortilla Donostia Slice 4.8/5

One of the standouts was the Tortilla Donostia Slice ($10). This Spanish omelette, made with organic eggs, confit shallots, and potatoes, is enhanced with extra virgin olive oil. The highlight? The runny egg centre adds a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

Patatas Bravas Bonanova 4.5/5

The Patatas Bravas Bonanova ($10) is a classic with a twist featuring deep-fried agria potatoes topped with garlic aioli, spicy tomato sauce, and chilli oil. The crispy potatoes pair beautifully with the bold and flavourful sauces, making this a must-order for potato lovers.

Txipirones Bilbao 4.5/5

The Txipirones Bilbao ($20) showcases squid in two forms — grilled and deep-fried — served alongside squid rice in a robust, flavourful broth. The combination of textures and the deep umami flavours of the squid makes this dish a standout for seafood enthusiasts.

Alcachofa Brasa 4/5

The Alcachofa Brasa ($18), grilled artichokes, is charred over fire to bring out its natural earthy and nutty flavours. The smokiness from the grilling enhances the dish, making it a delightful, rustic option.

Macarrones del Cardenal 4.5/5

The Macarrones del Cardenal ($16) is a hearty pasta dish from Barcelona. Homemade penne pasta is coated in secreto ibérico sofrito and Manchego cream, resulting in a comforting, indulgent bite filled with bold Spanish flavours.

Bunuelos de Pamplona 4.2/5

The Bunuelos de Pamplona ($14) are codfish fritters paired with ajoarriero sofrito and saffron oil. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, the fritters pack the delicate savoriness of codfish, with the saffron oil adding a touch of luxury.

Sobrassada 4.2/5

Bikini 4.2/5

Carlitos also offers Molletes - toasted flatbread sandwiches. The Sobrassada ($10) features pork sausages, burrata, and honey, creating a sweet and savoury medley. The Bikini ($12) is a decadent combination of Iberico ham, brie cheese, and truffle duxelle — a favourite for those seeking rich flavours.

Arroz Caldoso de Gambas 4.5/5

A comforting pot of Spanish stew, the Arroz Caldoso de Gambas ($28) features Mediterranean red prawns poached with vongole veraci clams in a broth enriched with rice. The dish is hearty, flavourful, and perfect for sharing.

Fricando Barcelona 4.5/5

The Fricandó Barcelona ($30) is a rich, thick ragu made with Black Angus beef and fragranced with porcini mushrooms. Paired with maitake rice, it’s a comforting, earthy dish for meat lovers.

Flan y Cafe 4/5

Dessert began with the Flan y Café ($12), a silky Spanish caramel pudding served with Corlado coffee. The creamy flan and aromatic coffee create a delightful end to the meal.

Tarta de Queso 4.5/5

Lastly, we had the Tarta de Queso ($12), a Basque burnt cheesecake tart paired with sangria sorbet. This was the dessert that kept Chef Carlos's restaurant afloat during COVID, and it's easy to see why. The fruity tang of the sorbet perfectly balances the rich, creamy cheesecake.

Carlitos is a welcome addition to Joo Chiat, offering authentic Spanish flavours in a cosy, unpretentious setting. From tapas to stews and desserts, the menu reflects Chef Carlos' culinary journey and love for Spanish cuisine. Whether you're a fan of classic tapas or looking for something unique, Carlitos delivers an authentic slice of Spain right in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Carlitos
350 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427598
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sun: 1130am - 330pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon and Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 16. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road, turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]