Moxie @ Alumni Association Medical Centre (SGH) - Launches Brand New Weekend Brunch Experience

Moxie, located just minutes from Tiong Bahru, brings a refreshing Mediterranean beach-house vibe to its newly launched Weekend Brunch. Bright, airy and relaxed, the space is designed for lingering afternoons filled with sharing plates, seafood-forward dishes and easy drinks. We visited for an invited tasting to explore their updated brunch offerings. Here’s our complete, honest review.

Burrata 4/5

We started with the Burrata Salad ($26), featuring an ultra-creamy burrata paired with roasted and pickled red beets, flambeed grapes and a fragrant pistachio dukkah. The balance of sweetness, acidity and spice works beautifully, and the mint oil adds a refreshing lift. A simple dish elevated by thoughtful touches is a strong start to the meal.

Spiced Corn Ribs 3.8/5

The Spiced Corn Ribs ($16) arrived in adorable finger-sized pieces, lightly crisp and well-seasoned with paprika, coriander and cumin. The cumin-infused aioli, feta and fresh herbs add richness, making this an easy crowd-pleaser. Great as a starter or as a snack with drinks, though not particularly groundbreaking.

*NEW* Buttermilk Fried Chicken Lollipop 3/5

We were pretty excited for the Buttermilk Fried Chicken Lollipops ($15) as they looked promising and well-marinated. However, the flavour leaned too salty for our liking, and the charred edges introduced a bitterness that distracted from the marinade. The smoked almond aioli was tasty, but overall, this dish didn’t land as well as the others.

*NEW* Spanish Cod Brandade 4/5

The Spanish Cod Brandade ($19) turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Made with salted cod slow-cooked in aromatic milk, then folded with potatoes, garlic confit, shio kombu and crème fraiche, it has a comforting, creamy texture reminiscent of a seafood croquette filling. Spread on toasted sourdough, it’s rich, savoury and addictive. Definitely a dish that grows on you with each bite.

Black Garlic Pesto Linguine 3.5/5

The Black Garlic Pesto Linguine ($32) features al dente pasta in a sauce of white wine, black garlic pesto, rock shrimp, scallops, mussels, and chilli flakes. While the seafood was fresh and the pasta cooked well, the garlic flavours didn’t come through strongly enough, and the scallops were cut into tiny pieces, which reduced their satisfaction factor. A decent dish, but could be bolder.

*NEW* Shrimp and Grits 4.5/5

Umami Rice 4.2/5

Moxie does seafood really well, and it truly shows in both the Shrimp and Grits ($36) and the Umami Rice ($46). The former impressed us with three plump tiger prawns, marinated in Calabrian chilli and garlic, grilled perfectly, and served atop creamy saffron- and cotija-infused grits. Rich, flavour-packed and memorable, though best shared as it becomes heavy after several bites.

The latter features matsu rice simmered in shellfish bisque and crowned with prawns, scallops, squid and clams. We loved the firm, al-dente grains that absorbed all the bisque goodness. Deeply savoury and layered with briny sweetness, this was one of our favourites of the afternoon.

*NEW* Double Bone Iberico Pork Chop 3.8/5

The Double Bone Iberico Pork Chop ($42) is brined, sous-vide-cooked, pecan-crusted, and finished in the oven, resulting in tender, juicy meat. Paired with a pancetta and sweet corn potato hash, it’s hearty and flavourful. However, the combination veers slightly too sweet for our personal preference.

Dark Chocolate Mousse 3/5

*NEW* Pistachio Cheese Brulee Tart 3.5/5

We ended our meal with two desserts. The Dark Chocolate Mousse ($16) is velvety and rich, served with hazelnut ice cream, toasted hazelnuts and berry compote. The flavours are classic and comforting, though not particularly standout.

The Pistachio Cheese Brulee Tart ($18) features an almond sablé crust filled with a pistachio-infused cream cheese custard, which is torched before serving. Creamy, slightly savoury, and not overly sweet, this makes a lovely finish for those who prefer desserts on the lighter side.

For those who enjoy a tipple with brunch, Moxie offers a generous 2-hour free-flow programme — priced at $38++ for red/white wine and prosecco, or $48++ if you’d like to add rosé, Aperol spritz and beer. If free-flow isn’t your vibe, their menu also features a solid selection of creative and classic cocktails that pair well with a lazy weekend afternoon.

Moxie offers a breezy, enjoyable brunch experience with standout seafood dishes, vibrant starters, and a welcoming Mediterranean-inspired setting. While a few plates could benefit from stronger flavours or seasoning adjustments, many dishes delivered satisfying textures and freshness. The 2-hour free-flow option is also a great value for those planning to unwind over drinks. If you’re looking for a relaxed weekend spot to graze, share plates and enjoy well-executed seafood, Moxie is a charming choice worth checking out.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. 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 the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) @ Clementi Ave 3 - Bringing Its Signature Handmade Dumplings to the West

Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺) expands its footprint to Clementi, bringing its well-loved handmade dumplings closer to Westies seeking hearty, comforting bites. Known for its generous fillings and time-honoured craftsmanship, the brand continues to deliver the same nostalgic flavours that have won over generations.

Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling 4/5

We started with the Shrimp and Vegetable Pork Dumpling ($9.80), which comes with 10 plump pieces. Each dumpling boasts a juicy filling encased in a dough that strikes a good balance — not too thick, yet with enough bite to hold everything together. The dumplings are tossed in the restaurant’s so-called viral mixed sauce with chilli oil and served over a bed of bean sprouts. Nutty, mildly spicy and aromatic, the sauce adds a lively lift without overpowering the dumplings.

Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton 4.2/5

We also tried the soup option with the Shrimp and Crab Roe Pork Wanton ($10.80). The Cantonese-style broth is light yet comforting, pairing well with the silky wantons. Compared to the dry version, this bowl leans more towards heartwarming simplicity, which some diners may prefer.

Fresh Corn Juice 3/5

An interesting item on the drinks menu caught my eye — the Fresh Corn Juice ($3.80), served hot. It’s lighter and less sweet than expected, though the distinct corn flavour comes through. While not particularly indulgent, it’s a quirky alternative for those curious to try something different.

Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce

Worried that the dumplings alone might not be filling, we added on the Noodles with Fried Bean and Meat Sauce ($5.50). The noodles have a pleasant chew and pair well with the marinated mixture of fried bean and meat. Reminiscent of Zha Jiang Mian, this bowl offers simple, savoury satisfaction.

With its new Clementi outlet, Yuen Kee Dumpling offers Westies better access to its familiar handmade dumplings and noodles. While the menu remains simple, the comforting flavours and reasonable pricing make it a dependable spot for a satisfying meal in the neighbourhood.


Yuen Kee Dumpling (袁记云饺)
Blk 446 Clementi Ave 3
#01-195
Singapore 120446
Tel: +65 89319588
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Mall. Exit the mall and walk to Block 448 Clementi Market and Food Centre. Continue walking past the food centre to block 446. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes.[Map]

Il Toro Woodfire Grill @ Gemmill Lane - A Celebration of Woodfire Showcases Fire-Driven Italian-Australian Flavours

IL TORO Woodfire Grill at Gemmill Lane is a brand new concept by Chef Drew Nocente, the same chef-owner behind Cenzo and Chicco Pasta Bar. Drawing inspiration from the Italian tradition of grigliata and shaped by the Australian spirit, the restaurant places fire at the core of its menu. Expect bold flavours, whole cuts of meat, and a warm sense of hospitality, all anchored by the primal draw of woodfire cooking.

Focaccia, Beef Fat Candle 4/5

A playful start to the meal, the Focaccia ($8) comes accompanied by a candle made from beef fat. As it melts, the rendered fat becomes a savoury spread. The Focaccia itself is grilled for a crisp exterior, making this both fun in concept and enjoyable in flavour.

Foie Gras, Fig & Pistachio 4/5

The Foie Gras ($8/pc) is rich and creamy, paired thoughtfully with sweet fig and crunchy pistachio. The combination provides a balance of sweetness and nuttiness, lifting the foie gras without overwhelming it.

Coffin Bay Oysters, Yuzu Koshu & Smoked Beef Fat 4/5

The Coffin Bay Oysters ($6/pc) offer clean brininess with a bright citrus touch from yuzu koshu. The smoked beef fat adds depth, resulting in a finish that is both vibrant and savoury.

Sea Bream, Amalfi Lemon, Bone Reduction and Caviar 3.8/5

The Sea Bream ($22) is served in a ceviche style with Amalfi lemon and bone reduction, topped with caviar. While well assembled, the flavours could be bolder to better highlight the fish's natural sweetness.

Iberico Pork Belly & Sausage Skewer 3.8/5

The Iberico Pork Belly & Sausage Skewer ($8/pc) is hearty and satisfying, and many tables seemed to be ordering it. Although nicely grilled, the seasoning could be punchier to fully showcase the meat's richness.

Tiger Prawns, Garlic Chilli 4/5

The Tiger Prawns ($10/pc) are sweet and smoky from the grill. The garlic chilli brings bold flavour and enhances the prawn's natural sweetness, giving a rich, robust kick.

Octopus, Nduja, Burnt Chive Butter & Miso Corn 4.2/5

The Octopus ($36) is well handled, tender, and has a pleasant bite. The pairing of nduja and burnt chive butter adds layers of umami and spice. The side of miso corn is notably excellent, sweet, juicy, and highly addictive.

Blackmore Wagyu MS9+ Tri Tip 4.2/5

The Blackmore Wagyu MS9+ Tri Tip ($78, 200g) is exclusive to IL TORO and available daily in limited quantities. While tri tip is naturally leaner, it is cooked beautifully here, resulting in tender, flavourful meat with the signature woodfire aroma.

Baby Potatoes, Hot Honey & Ricotta 4.5/5

A standout side, the Baby Potatoes ($12) are tossed in hot honey and served on creamy ricotta. Sweet, savoury and texturally satisfying. This is the kind of side you'll want seconds of.

Mint Slice Al Fuoco 4/5

For dessert, the Mint Slice Al Fuoco ($16) features mint semifreddo, smoked chocolate ganache and meringue. The tableside brûlée of the meringue adds theatre and creates a pleasing caramelised crunch to finish.

Overall, IL TORO delivers a bold, fire-forward dining experience that showcases Chef Drew's strong understanding of balance, produce and smoky depth. The woodfire element is consistent and intentional, from starters to dessert. A welcome addition to Gemmill Lane for those who appreciate grilled meats and Italian-Australian conviviality.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Il Toro Woodfire Grill
18 Gemmill Lane
Singapore 069255
Tel: +65 82591021
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun & Mon)

Direction:
Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Smolder @ Outram Road - Brings Authentic Farm-to-Table Coastal Backyard BBQ to the Heart of Singapore

If you’re looking to support local while indulging in something delicious and exciting, make your way to Smolder, a vibrant new seafood grill and bar along Outram Road. Brought to you by the team behind Scaled and Ah Hua Kelong, Smolder continues their mission of championing locally farmed seafood, this time with a bold, flame-kissed twist.

The menu at Smolder is divided into five sections, and the Sides segment alone is enough to draw your attention, with tempting offerings such as stuffed squid, calamari, fresh local green lip mussels, octopus, and potato salad, as well as zucchini-parmesan fritters.

Elote 4.5/5

Since we knew more seafood dishes were coming later, we opted for the Elote ($9), a grilled sweet corn slathered in mayo, sour cream, parmesan, chilli, garlic, coriander, and lime. The white corn had the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, lifted beautifully by the smoky, tangy glaze. I could easily have eaten a whole cob on my own!

Portuguese Seafood Stew 4/5

From the Mains section, we went with the Portuguese Seafood Stew ($28) and the Clams Linguine in Buzara Tomato Sauce ($26). Other options on the menu include Braised Short Ribs, a Wagyu Beef Burger, steak, blackened sea bass, and grilled snapper or grouper piccata pasta.

The Portuguese Seafood Stew ($28) is one of owner Wong Jing Kai’s personal favourites, crafted with a hearty mix of both seafood and meat. Think pork belly, plump mussels wild caught daily, clams, and prawns, all simmered in a paprika and tomato-based broth, served with grilled garlic bread on the side. While the freshness and generous portions of the ingredients stood out, I found that the flavour of the stew itself could have been a little more robust.

Clams Linguine in Buzara Tomato Sauce 4.5/5

I personally preferred the Clams Linguine in Buzara Tomato Sauce ($26), which features fresh clams simmered in a tomato and white wine base. What’s interesting is that no salt is added; the dish relies solely on the natural brininess of the clams for seasoning. The result was simple yet tasty, and I found it very much to my liking.

Pearl Grouper 4.5/5

For the Big Plates, diners can opt for a whole 700g fish, with choices including snapper, seabass, or pearl grouper, or go all out with Boston lobster or Alaskan king crab legs. Each Big Plate is paired with two Small Plates, with options such as cornbread, fried potato, grilled corn salad, grilled vegetable salad, or broccolini.

If you’re unsure which fish to pick, the team is happy to recommend one. Since we prefer fish with a flaky texture, we went with their suggestion of the Pearl Grouper ($85). The Pearl Grouper arrived marvellously executed. Its skin was seared till it was pretty crisp, while the flesh inside was fresh, moist, and flaky. The clean, delicate sweetness of the fish really shone through, showcasing the quality of the produce, enhanced by some good flame grilling. It felt like an indulgence, but also a relatively healthy one at the same time. The grouper was also served with a spicy but satisfying house chilli and a lemon wedge.

Cornbread 4.2/5

We chose the American-style Cornbread as one of our small plates, and I enjoyed its dense, hearty texture, which was not too dry, and was studded with sweet grilled corn kernels for a satisfying bite.

Broccolini 3.8/5

We also picked the charred baby broccolini, drizzled with smoky, house-made romesco sauce and with toasted almonds, adding a nice crunch to the greens.

The dessert menu features four options: a double-layered chocolate cake, an olive oil cake, a New York–style cheesecake, and a spiced apple wonton with vanilla semifreddo. We were unfortunately too full to try any, but they certainly sound like a sweet finale worth saving room for next time!

The newly opened 90-seat restaurant was lively even on a weekday night. The buzz reflected Ah Hua Kelong’s loyal following, drawn by local seafood that’s as fresh as it gets.

Penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Smolder Seafood Grill and Bar
271 Outram Road
Singapore 169062
Tel: +65 9888 6849
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 5pm - 11pm
Fri-Sun: 12pm - 230pm, 5pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock Road. Take Exit 1. Walk straight to Seng Poh Road. Turn left onto Seng Poh Road. Walk down Seng Poh Road to Outram Road. Turn right onto Outram Road. Walk down Outram Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Latido @ Tras Street - Singapore's First and Only Colombian Restaurant

Latido celebrates the vibrant, playful culture of Latin America. It is led by veteran Chef Fernando Arévalo, who hails from Bogotá, Colombia, but has considered Singapore his home for over a decade. Chef Arévalo's impressive background and previous concepts include the highly regarded Preludio and Bacatá.

Latido offers dishes that work well to introduce Colombian food to the local Singaporean palate whilst providing a few more unique dishes to pique the interest of the adventurous, such as chicken hearts and rabbit meat. The menu concisely reflects the recent trend in diner's preferences. It is offered in an à la carte format, allowing diners to curate their own experience and choose dishes at their own pace and comfort level. They also offer a very tempting lunch deal, which is worth checking out.

The restaurant is very spacious, a luxury in the Tanjong Pagar area. Spanning two shophouses, the restaurant offers two distinct dining areas with different vibes. One side features a long chef's table crafted from Brazilian wood, allowing diners to watch the chefs work up close. This brightly lit area creates a lively, casual, and relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of dining at a close friend's house. On the other side, the ambience shifts to a more intimate setting with individual tables and mood lighting, offering a cosier dining experience. The restaurant is also decorated with arts and crafts sourced from indigenous Colombian tribes. Look out for the unique wine bottle carved out of a hoof!

Bocados de Tiradito 4/5

Bocado translates to mean a mouthful or a bite, and we started our dinner with two flavourful bites: one with Tiradito, a lighter version of ceviche, and one with white corn.

The Bocados de Tiradito ($22) looks like the local favourite Kueh Pie Tee but is filled with ceviche. Sawara (Spanish Mackerel) is used, with leche de Tigre and pearls of lime vinegar inside the kueh pie tee shell, infused with coriander seed. It's tasty, with a bit of a creaminess, but not as much of the brightness that I'm used to with cured fish.

Bocados de Maiz 4.5/5

The Bocados de Maiz ($16) was new and interesting for me. Very crunchy white corn is on top of a crispy cassava tart base, layered with avocado mousse and a touch of Aji Amarillo (chilli pepper). Palm sugar pearls contribute a hint of sweetness. The dish is finished with parmesan cheese shavings. A lovely combination of flavours and textures!

Pan de la Casa 4.5/5

Next, we had Chef Fernando's signature rye bread, Pan de la Casa ($8), a recipe he has perfected over the years. The rye bread is glazed with fermented mushrooms and maple, and you can taste the earthy flavour coming through. It's paired with a rich, caramelised-infused butter that I happily slathered all over my bread.

Arepa de Chocolo Y Huevo 4.8/5

The Arepa is a traditional cornmeal flatbread with roots in indigenous Colombian culture, offering what feels like a cross between a pancake and a taco. Chef Fernando shared that there are many regional variations of the Arepa, and this particular version hails from the Northern part of Colombia. The Arepa de Chocolo y Huevo ($22) features a sweetcorn cake stuffed with a fried egg, and savoury cured pork jowl, which is finished with a touch of spicy paprika. Absolutely delicious, a must-try!

Arepan Conejo 4.5/5

Next, we tried a unique dish featuring braised rabbit, which is not so commonly served in Singapore. The Arepan Conejo ($38) stars tender, juicy rabbit sourced from Hungary, served on a cassava wrap that has a nice chewy, mochi-like texture. The dish is complemented by bacon, parmesan cheese, and pickled onions. It's recommended to fold it up and enjoy it with your hands, letting the tasty juices drip as you savour each bite. The rabbit itself has a mild, chicken-like flavour and is cooked till very tender.

Sopa Langousta 4.5/5

The Sopa Langousta ($50) is expertly crafted. It features lobster that's lightly poached to retain a sashimi-like texture. The dish also includes chunks of creamy avocado, delightful corn bits, and a warm, velvety potato soup to tie everything together.

Lechonista 4.2/5

We eagerly anticipated the Lechonista ($38 per 100g), especially after watching the preparation of the suckling pig while enjoying other courses. It's served pulled pork style with pickled chilli and paired with cassava wraps, pork jus sauce, and pickled onions.

We were encouraged to wrap everything together for an enjoyable bite. What I really appreciated about this dish is that this suckling pig dish didn't have the strong, sometimes overwhelming pork flavour that you may find in other preparations.

Plantainitos 4.2/5

There's only one dessert option on the menu — Plantainitos ($16) — and it showcases plantains, which are starchy fruits similar to bananas but typically less sweet. Plantains can be used ripe or unripe, and the ripe version is chosen for this dessert. A layer of cake made with dates, toffee, and rum is topped with smooth, creamy burrata ice cream.

It was a fun evening exploring Colombian ingredients and flavours, presented in a way that was accessible and delicious for our taste buds. We also appreciated the warm service and the friendly hospitality from the staff, which contributed to the overall experience.

Penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Latido
40 Tras Street
Singapore 078979
Tel: +65 89618191
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
Sat: 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Tras Street. Turn right onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk down Tanjong Pagar Road. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk down Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]