Ms Durian @ Jalan Besar - New Standalone Bakery And Cafe Specialising In All Things Durian

If you are a durian fan, Ms Durian is a bakery and cafe you will definitely want to look out for. The team started with a small shop at Potong Pasir in 2019 before expanding to this new space at Jalan Besar in February. Their new standalone space has indoor and outdoor seating and offers diners freshly made items of all things durian.

Apart from their signature sweets, Ms Durian has also launched a new variety of savoury dishes with mains such as Pan-seared Salmon ($29) and Smoked Duck Eggs Benny ($22), as well as sharing dishes like Fried Cheese ($18) and Grilled White Corn ($12).

Mao Shan Wang Durian High Tea Set

One of Ms Durian's signatures is their Mao Shan Wang Durian High Tea Set ($45/pax). Two high tea sessions are daily, at 1pm and 3pm. Each set has four desserts, three savoury items, and a tea pairing. Do note that it is mandatory for each person at the same table to order a set each. We sampled a few items from the set, starting from the top with the ones with the least durian intensity before the stronger ones after. First was the Fried Durian. This bite had a rich durian filling with coconut sauce to pair with it. Next was the Durian Craquelin, a mini version of one of their best-selling creations. We loved the crisp and light outer layer, paired with a sweet durian centre.

We then moved on to the Durian Macaron, which had a soft and chewy shell, before finishing with the Durian Cheese Mousse that came topped with brown butter crumble. I would have liked a stronger cheese mousse here for contrast; otherwise, it was a pleasant dessert.

Durian Ice Blended 4/5

The Durian Ice Blended ($10.50) is a new introduction to their beverage list. You can have it two ways - the first is as it is served, while the second is being paired with grounded white sesame. I thought it could be blended more smoothly, and the addition of white sesame was negligible, but we enjoyed how it was rich yet not overwhelmingly sweet. It works well in satisfying the durian craving and doesn't leave you feeling heaty after finishing the whole glass.

Durian Coffee 4.2/5

Each bottle of Durian Coffee ($12.50) is made to order, done with a combination of creamy latte and durian. The espresso notes hit strongly initially, while the durian notes come in at the end. The team worked on attaining a well-balanced ratio here.

Creme Brulee with Mao Shan Wang Durian Ice Cream 3/5

Ms Durian offers a couple of plated desserts, including the Creme Brulee with Mao Shan Wang Durian Ice Cream ($18.50). While we enjoyed the rich, creamy ice cream and crunchy macadamia nut brittle, we found the vanilla essence too strong in the custard and the torched sugar layer too thick. The team was very open to feedback, so we look forward to an improved version!

Mao Shan Wang Durian Tiramisu 4/5

Made with freshly pulled espresso and an additional touch of rum, Ms Durian's Mao Shan Wang Durian Tiramisu ($18.50) is intentionally kept more bitter. We liked the intensity of the coffee and its contrasting pairing with the thick and sweet durian mousse. The ladyfingers were of a harder texture, which would be better if they were soaked further for a softer texture.

Whisky Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake 4.5/5

The Whisky Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake ($14.50) features a triple-layered Mao Shan Wang durian between whisky-infused sponge cake, topped with meringue. The whisky leaves a subtle whiff, while the crisp meringue gives a complementary touch of sweetness. The durian was rich but not too sweet, which we greatly enjoyed.

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.


Ms Durian
11 Kelantan Road
Singapore 208604
Tel: +65 69620057
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Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar MRT (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Thu: 9am - 6pm
Fri-Sun: 9am - 10pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Jalan Besar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Jalan Besar Road towards Kelantan Road. Turn right onto Kelantan Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

TEN+ @ Sungei Tengah Rd - Singapore’s First Safari-Themed Bistro Offers Camp-like Dining Experience With Western Eastern Fare

Nestled along Sungei Tengah Road near Choa Chu Kang, Ten+ is Singapore's first safari-themed bistro that simulates what dining in nature feels like — but with a beautiful twist. Other than a menu that encompasses the best of both Western and Eastern cuisines and self-grilled barbecue, Ten+ also offers a variety of booze, such as beers on tap for diners to unwind and enjoy.

Purple Sweet Potato Latte 3.5/5, Smoked Oak Mocha 4/5

We started our brunch with the Purple Sweet Potato Latte ($6) and Smoked Oak Mocha ($6). While the former does not have much of a Sweet Potato taste, we enjoyed the latter for its smoky aroma and distinct bittersweet notes.

Creamy Egg Mayo Croissant 3/5

The Creamy Egg Mayo Croissant ($16) comes with a flaky croissant filled with creamy egg mayo fillings. However, the egg mayo felt too underseasoned and bland, while the croissant needed more fluffiness.

Torched Aburi Prawn Pasta 3.5/5

The Torched Aburi Prawn Pasta ($23) features al dente linguine in prawn bisque, topped with prawns and tobiko. The prawn bisque could be richer in flavours, as it felt a tad watered down.

Flame Grilled Angus Burger 4/5

The Flame Grilled Angus Burger ($23) comes with a tender, juicy US Angus beef patty grilled to a nice medium rare and maple bacon sandwiched between two fluffy buns and a side of crispy curly fries.

Battered Fish Bites 3.8/5

They offer Heineken towers and craft bottled beers for those seeking to chill and unwind over drinks with friends. Pair the booze with their variety of bar bites, including the Battered Fish Bites ($14), which comes in a generous portion of bite-sized crispy fried fish paired perfectly with mayo sauce.

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.


TEN+
65 Sungei Tengah Road
Singapore 699000
Tel: +65 86568685
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Nearest MRT: Choa Chu Kang (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Sun: 11am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Choa Chu Kang MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop opposite Choa Chu Kang MRT station (Stop ID 44531). Take bus number 975. Alight 7 stops later. Cross the road and turn right towards Sungei Tengah Road. Turn left onto Sungei Tengah Road. Take the left of Sungei Tengah Road at the first fork. Take the right of sungei Tengah Road at the second fork. Walk to destination. Journey time about 30 minutes. [Map]

Alkove Bistro @ Kovan Road - Michelin-starred Chef Serving Up Casual French Fare In The Heartlands

Alkove Bistro is a new venture by Chef Haikal Johari, a French-inspired bistro fare in the heartlands of Kovan. The casual bistro is supported by a team of young talents, offering familiar savoury and sweet French favourites with prime ingredients used throughout the menu.

We started our brunch with a cup of coffee to perk up the day. The coffee menu at Alkove Bistro was created in collaboration with CATA Coffee.

Croque Monsieur 3.8/5

The Croque Monsieur ($17.90), a classic ham and cheese sandwich, comes with two thick, fluffy brioches sandwiched with Bayonne ham and comte. It is a hearty and cheesy toastie that is packed with rich flavours.

Chicken Vin Blanc 4/5

We enjoyed the Chicken Vin Blanc ($27.90). A whole free-range chicken leg and morel mushroom complement the perfectly cooked pasta. The creamy vin blanc sauce lifted the enjoyment, making me return for more. It will be one of the dishes I will order in my return.

Wagyu Onglet Steak Frites 3/5

I did not enjoy the Wagyu Onglet Steak Frites ($29,90). I was not too fond of the cut of the Margaret River Wagyu, which is a bit tough to my liking.

Ocean Trout 4/5

The Ocean Trout ($26.90) fares better than the beef. The ocean trout is cooked to a beautiful moist with crispy skin, paired with olives, anchovies, boiled eggs, potatoes, kenya fine beans, and couscous.

With Chef Haikal Johari's fame behind the causal bistro, I was expecting more from the food menu. However, while the food was decent, it was safe, lacking that wow factor that made it stand out against other bistros.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Alkove Bistro
Simon Plaza
2 Kovan Road
#01-10
Singapore 548008
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Nearest MRT: Kovan MRT station (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Mon: 8am - 6pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Kovan MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight to Simon Road. Turn left onto Simon Road. Walk down Simon Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Nan Yang Dao (南洋岛) @ Serangoon Central - Authentic And Affordable Malaysian-Style Dishes In Serangoon

Nan Yang Dao (南洋岛), a vibrant eatery offering Malaysian-style dishes, opened earlier this year. It is located within Serangoon Central and just a short walk away from Serangoon MRT. The popular eatery has seen crowds throughout the year, especially during meal times to get a taste of their extensive variety of authentic Malaysian classics.

3 Layers Coffee 4/5

We kickstarted the meal with a cup of 3 Layers Coffee ($3). This layered drink was initially inspired by Sarawak's famous '3 Layer Tea. As for the coffee version, the drink consists of three layers of black coffee, palm sugar, and evaporated unsweetened milk. Perfectly milky without being overly sweet, it is great for coffee drinkers who prefer their coffee to be milkier and sweeter.

Penang Fried Kway Teow 4.2/5

The Penang Fried Kway Teow ($6.80) is one of their signatures. The Penang's rendition has lesser soy sauce and boasts a nice wok hei aroma. The pork lard gave the dish an extra oomph and comes with essential ingredients like Chinese sausages, bean sprouts, fish cakes and prawns.

Selayang Big Bowl Curry Noodle 4.2/5

Another signature is their Selayang Big Bowl Curry Noodle ($9.90). It arrives in a giant bowl of curry mee while a plate contains the excess curry broth at the bottom to depict the overflowing goodness. The rich curry broth is fragrant and slightly spicy and comes loaded with pork belly, prawns, beancurd skin, meatball, and fishball.

Dry Curry Mee 4/5

We also tried the Dry Curry Mee ($6.90), where yellow noodles are doused in a robust and creamy curry sauce and topped with char siu slices and french beans, along with tau pok and shredded chicken. Like the Selayang Big Bowl Curry Noodle, the spiciness was slightly tamer, but the dishes were still very satisfying.

Hometown Prawn Paste Fried Chicken 4.2/5

The Prawn Paste Fried Chicken ($10.80), better known as 'Har Cheong Gai', is crisp on the outside and succulent on the inside, with a pleasant prawn paste aroma. The wings packed a punch full of flavours from its special shrimp paste batter.

Chendol 4.5/5

To end off the meal on a sweet note, we had the Chendol ($3.50). It has a good amount of gula melaka without being overly sweet and has a nice brown sugar and coconut fragrance. The generous amount of red beans and chewy green jelly toppings also added a nice textural contrast to the dessert.

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.


Nan Yang Dao (南洋岛)
Blk 262 Serangoon Central
#01-85
Singapore: 550262
Tel: +65 65131750
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Nearest MRT: Serangoon (CC Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Serangoon MRT station. Take Exit E.Turn left and walk down Serangoon Central. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 mintues. [Map]

Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Launches The Brand New Panache Of Singapore Afternoon Tea

Located on the first floor of Pan Pacific Singapore, the Atrium Lounge is known for its iconic seating pods floating over a reflective pool. It recently launched the brand-new Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea, available daily from 12pm to 6pm. One can look forward to an enhanced dining experience with refreshed presentation and added touches such as welcome cocktail and amuse bouche, as well as enchanting melodies played live on a magnificent grand piano.

The afternoon tea comprises an ode to the classic indulgence with a touch of Singaporean flavours. Highlights include the Durian Choux, Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Pandan Cheesecake, and Classic Scones paired with Chef Dannevien’s handmade Pineapple and Peppercorn jam.

The sweets selection features local favourites such as the Durian Choux, and Pandan Cheesecake on the first tier, as well as the Lychee Chestnut Gâteaux, Dulcey Chocolate Passion Tart, and White Chocolate Banana Gâteaux.

My favourite is the Durian Choux, filled with creamy and indulgent Mao Shan Wang durian and Gula Melaka for a hint of sweetness.

The White Chocolate Bana Gateaux features ivory whipped ganache layered with fluffy chocolate cake, complete with a crunchy praline feuilletine and soft banana confit that provide different dimensions of textures and flavours.

Savouries include the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Homemade Virginia Ham Sandwich, Laksa Tart, Egg Pinwheel Roll, and Cucumber Sandwich.

Not to be missed is the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, with a fluffy soft brioche roll filled with crabmeat and savoury sweet chilli sauce. Another local favourite is the Laksa Tart, baked with laksa spices and topped with poached shrimp.

These decadent afternoon treats will not be complete without the finest beverage selection. Choose from an elaborate range of nearly 20 types of TWG Tea loose leaf, featuring locally inspired Singapore Breakfast and Weekend in Singapore and aromatic brews from Bacha Coffee. Take the teatime affair up a notch and sip on dreamy bubbly or toast to an Espresso Noisette and Brewberry Colada, handcrafted cocktail and non-alcoholic cocktail by Atrium's mixologists.

Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea
- $52.00 per diner | includes a pot of TWG Tea or Bacha Coffee
- $62.00 per diner | includes a glass of Copenhagen Sparkling Tea or Brewberry Colada (non-alcoholic cocktail)
- $72.00 per diner | includes a glass of Champagne or Espresso Noisette (cocktail)

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.


Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore
Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 6pm

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

You Are My Sushine @ Ngee Ann City - Hair Salon And Cafe Concept Offering Korean-Western Fusion Food

You Are My Sunshine is the latest venture by the folks behind Walking on Sunshine with a similar hair salon and cafe concept. Located on the fifth floor of Ngee Ann City, the salon-cafe is adorned with lush greenery and offers its customers premium full-service beauty salon services and a wide variety of Korean-Western fusion dishes at the cafe.

Blue Lemonade 4/5, Coconut Smoothie Coffee 4.2/5

We kickstarted our meals with a refreshing and fizzy Blue Lemonade ($7.50) and a Coconut Smoothie Coffee ($8) with a pleasant coconut fragrance.

Salmon Truffle Angel Hair Pasta 4.2/5

First, we had the Salmon Truffle Angel Hair Pasta ($30). The angel hair pasta cooked to an al dente texture has a strong truffle aroma, paired with refreshing pops of ikura. My favourite part of the dish is the grilled salmon which is perfectly cooked. The meat is soft and fork-tender, with a thin crispy skin.

Pan-seared Ribeye Steak 4/5

The Pan-seared Ribeye Steak ($33) features New Zealand Rib-eye paired with mashed potato, asparagus, beef jus, cherry tomatoes and sea salt. The steak done medium-rare is well-seasoned, each slice rendering with tender juiciness.

Kroffle with Ice Cream 4/5

End your meal on a sweet note with their Kroffle with Ice Cream ($20). The Kroffle is a hybrid between the waffle and croissant - a fluffy and flaky croissant pressed into a waffle shape. The result is a delicious crispy waffle-shaped croissant, which we paired with a scoop of strawberry cheesecake ice cream.

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.


You Are My Sunshine
Ngee Ann City
391B Orchard Road
#05/05A
Singapore 238874
Tel: +65 88878805
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line), Somerset (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 3. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Le Matin Patisserie @ Robinson Road - Expanded With Two New Outlets

Fans of Le Matin will be great that they have opened two more outlets at Paragon and Robinson Road. I visited their new outlet at Robinson Road. Now Le Matin has a bigger space and more importantly a proper dine-in space.

With the dine-in space, now we can enjoy the pastries in comfort over a cup of coffee. We tried a few of their pastries that was available during our visit.

Avo On Toast - grilled pecan financier "toast" stacked with avocado mousse and sourdough creameux finished with a shaving of brown cheese and vegemite dust.

Granola Bowl - granola tart bowl filled with a yogurt and elderflower panna cotta, topped with cloudberry jam and a green strawberry tartar.

Cashew Tart - crisp pate sucree filled with a cashew and saffron frangipane and orange blossom scented mulberries. It is topped with a touch of cashew custard, cashew nougatine and caramelised cashew nut.

Escargot - traditional croissant pastry shaped like a snail and stuffed with juicy escargots from France, and a mushroom ricotta custard. It’s then coated with a garlic crumb and doused with garlic butter, then finished with a swirl of parsley chimichurri.

Ox Tongue & Cheese Croissant Panini - classic croissant layered with beef tongue and wagyu bresaola, a mix of 4 different cheeses, as well as pickled rose petals, butternut and horseradish. It is then flattened in a grill like a panini sando.

Of the pastries I tried, I prefer the savouries over the sweets. One of my all time favourites is the Ox Tongue & Cheese Croissant Panini. Saying that, the Avo on Toast is an interesting take of the traditional avocado toast.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Le Matin Patisserie
77 Robinson Road
#01-03
Singapore 068896
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 9am - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to Robinson Road and Maxwell Road traffic junction. Cross the road and turn left onto Robinson Road. Walk down Robinsion Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]