Mensho Tokyo @ Raffles City - Award-winning Global Ramen Brand Opens In Singapore with Exclusive Chilli Crab Ramen

Mensho Tokyo, founded by legendary ramen master Tomoharu Shono in 2005, has landed in Raffles City, Singapore. Known for combining traditional ramen-making with bold and complex flavour profiles, Mensho Tokyo's Singapore outlet boasts exclusive local creations. It is the first Mensho outlet in the world to offer desserts on its menu. Naturally, I had to check it out.

A5 Wagyu Abura Soba 4.2/5

The most premium item on the menu is the A5 Wagyu Abura Soba ($41). This dish features house-made thick wheat noodles and a sauce crafted from Kioke wood barrel-aged shoyu. The soba is accompanied by two types of Miyazaki A5 Wagyu, spinach, baby asparagus, red onion, truffle paste, charcoal leek, and calamansi. The rich, dry-style ramen highlights the luxurious wagyu cuts, making it a must-try for any beef lover, though the price tag might leave some hesitating.

Duck Matcha 4.2/5

I was taken aback when I saw Duck Matcha ($28) on the menu. Matcha paired with ramen? Intrigued by the audacity of this creation, I decided to give it a go. Surprisingly, it works! The house-made wavy noodles are served in a creamy chicken matcha broth, topped with tender duck chashu and whipped cream. The harmonious combination offers an intriguing balance of umami and matcha bitterness. However, this dish must be eaten hot, as the matcha powder tends to separate when the broth cools, affecting the overall experience.

Signature Toripaitan 4.5/5

If it's your first time at Mensho Tokyo, I highly recommend the Signature Toripaitan ($28). Initially priced at $38, it's now more affordable at $28. It is the quintessential dish at Mensho, with house-made wavy wheat noodles, served in a rich and creamy chicken broth, accompanied by a medley of A5 Wagyu chashu, smoked pork chashu, duck chashu, and chicken chashu. Topped with king oyster mushroom menma, truffle sauce, ajitama egg, and fried burdock roots, the flavours are decadent and satisfying. The Classic Toripaitan with just smoked pork chashu is available for a more straightforward option at $19.

Fujiringo Chamomile and Momo-no Bubbles

Unlike most ramen shops, Mensho Tokyo sets itself apart by offering cocktails, mocktails, and desserts. We tried the Fujiringo Chamomile ($10), made with cold brew chamomile, homemade Fuji apple purée, and sparkling water. The Momo-no Bubbles ($18), a refreshing mix of Japanese peach liqueur, fresh lime, passionfruit, and prosecco, added a delightful effervescence to the meal.

A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Cavier Sushi (2pc) 4.5/5

We couldn't resist trying the A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Caviar Sushi ($14/2pc). This luxurious sushi swaps the usual seafood for melt-in-your-mouth A5 wagyu, topped with a touch of caviar. The wagyu's fattiness and the caviar's delicate brininess created an elevated sushi experience that's well worth the indulgence.

Corn Wings 4/5

For sides, we ordered the Corn Wings ($8.80), which were grilled to perfection with an aromatic char that complemented the natural sweetness of the corn. It's a simple yet satisfying side dish that adds a fun twist to the meal.

Yuzu 4/5

Houjicha Tiramisu 4.2/5

We tried the Yuzu Sorbet ($8.80) and Houjicha Tiramisu ($8.80) for dessert. The Yuzu sorbet provided a refreshing palate cleanser after the richness of the ramen. The Houjicha Tiramisu was creamy and aromatic with a subtle roasted tea flavour, though the portion size in its shot glass serving felt a little small for the price.

Overall, Mensho Tokyo offers a unique and refined ramen experience. Despite the use of chicken soup for many of the ramen dishes, the broths are surprisingly rich and creamy, almost like a hybrid between tonkotsu (pork-based broth) and chicken-based ramen. The addition of exclusive dishes, sushi, and desserts elevates the experience even further, making it more than just a ramen stop but a dining destination. It's a little on the pricier side, but the quality justifies the cost. If you're looking for a place that reimagines ramen and offers something beyond the ordinary, Mensho Tokyo is definitely worth a visit!

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Mensho Tokyo
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#03-43
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 83808467
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Aburi-EN @ Shaw House - New Izakaya Menu with Each Dish Priced Below $10

Aburi-EN has recently expanded its offerings with a brand-new Izakaya Menu, available across most of its outlets islandwide. Known for their range of donburi bowls, this Aburi-EN has recently expanded its offerings with a brand-new Izakaya Menu, available islandwide across most of its outlets. Known for its range of donburi bowls, this new addition brings a variety of meats, vegetables, and seafood, all priced under $10.

From 5pm daily, diners can enjoy their meal with a 1-for-1 Classic Highball or Asahi Beer promotion.

Pork Gyoza 3.8/5

We began our meal with the Pork Gyoza ($6.90 for 5 Pcs). The gyozas were filled with juicy and well-seasoned meat, though I would have preferred them with a little more crisp.

Sweet Corn with Butter Shoyu 3.5/5

Next up was the Sweet Corn with Butter Shoyu ($4.90). While the corn was slightly dry but still well-seasoned, bathed in a savoury blend of butter and soy sauce.

Mehikari Karaage 3/5

The Mehikari Karaage ($8.90), featuring deep-fried green eyes fish served with mayonnaise and shichimi, could have benefited from a crunchier texture. The flavour was decent but didn't quite hit the mark for me.

Crab Cream Croquette 3.5/5

The Crab Cream Croquette ($6.90) had a creamy, oozy centre and a crunchy exterior. Served with tartar sauce, these croquettes were enjoyable, though we were hoping for a stronger seafood flavour in the filling.

Hokkaido Buta Bara Asparagus Kushiyaki 4/5

One of my two favourites from the evening was the Hokkaido Buta Bara Asparagus Kushiyaki ($6.90). This dish featured crunchy asparagus wrapped in juicy pork belly, grilled, and glazed with a savoury seasoning.

Sumibi Chicken Yaki 4/5

My second favourite was the Sumibi Chicken Yaki (available at $5.50 for half and $9.90 for full). The charcoal-grilled chicken chunks were succulent and paired harmoniously with a bright and spiced yuzu paste, adding a refreshing citrusy kick to each bite.

Surume Ika Ponzu 4/5

Lastly, we tried the Surume Ika Ponzu ($9.90), a dish of grilled squid in ponzu sauce. While I wished the squid was less salty and offered in a larger portion, it was tender and had a satisfying fresh crunch.

Overall, the grilled items stood out the most during our meal. Currently, the Izakaya Menu is available at several Aburi-EN outlets, except for Jem and Paragon, where it has yet to be introduced.

Those interested in the full menu can visit Aburi-EN locations at Causeway Point, Chinatown Point, Guoco Tower, Isetan Scotts, Junction 8, NEX, and Tampines 1. A slightly adapted menu, excluding the Hokkaido Buta Bara Asparagus Kushiyaki and Kinoko Itame, will be available at Changi City Point, Jewel Changi Airport, Orchard Central, Suntec City, and VivoCity.

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.


Aburi-EN
Shaw House
350 Orchard Road
#01-K1
Singapore 238868
Tel: +65 6235 7616
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alightat Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Take the underpass and walk to Shaw House. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

The Feather Blade @ East Coast Road - Second Outlet with a Brand New Seafood Bar Alongside Store-exclusive Surf & Turf Dishes

The Feather Blade Steakhouse, renowned for its commitment to alternative cuts of beef, ventures into the East Coast with its second outlet. This new establishment introduces a seafood bar, showcasing delectable treasures from the sea, and debuts store-exclusive surf and turf dishes. In the spirit of melding the boldest flavours from the land with the sweetest offerings from the sea, The Feather Blade Steakhouse aims to provide a unique surf and turf steakhouse experience that resonates with Singaporeans' love for both steak and seafood.

Oysters 4/5

From the Seafood Bar, we indulged in Fresh Oysters from France, each pair paired with distinct accompaniments. The Salsa Taquera ($7.80/pair) offered a burst of flavours, while the Ponzu Ikura ($12/pair) elevated the oysters with a delightful zing.

Shrimp Cocktail 4/5

Another tempting creation from the seafood bar was the Shrimp Cocktail ($18.50 for 3pc). The prawns, poached to perfection and served chilled, retained their freshness and crunch. Accompanied by a sweet and tangy house cocktail sauce, it was a delightful symphony of flavours.

Scallop 4/5

Continuing our seafood experience, the Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio ($16), served with a shiso lime glaze, the sweet scallop received a zesty finishing touch, accentuated by the briny burst of salmon roe.

White Corn 4/5

The menu includes a vegetable delight - White Corn ($8.50). Charred to perfection, the corn was remarkably sweet, with a hint of smokiness. The smoked paprika oil added a touch of spiciness, while the tarragon cream provided a creamy balance.

Aubergine 3.8/5

The Aubergine ($7.50) from Australia presented a unique pairing. While the eggplant was mild, the dish exploded with flavours from the feta cheese, miso glaze, and balsamico. Cashew nuts sprinkled on top added an extra layer of texture contrast.

Bincho Feather Blade 3.5/5

For the pièce de résistance, we savoured the Bincho Feather Blade ($28 for 200g). Grilled with a sweet and savoury house glaze over Bincotan, this signature steak might not be the most tender cut, but it compensates with a smoky richness in flavour.

Fries 4/5

Accompanying our main course was the Triple Cooked Wagyu Beef Fat Fries ($7.90). Crispy, fluffy, and imbued with the fragrance of wagyu beef fat, these fries were a delight. The dill sour cream dip added a refreshing twist, or, for an extra indulgence, you could opt for the ikura dip.

Swordfish Sando 4.5/5

A surprising gem was the Swordfish Sando ($32). Featuring swordfish belly with smoked katsu sauce sandwiched between toasted Japanese milk bread, it played an optical illusion akin to a pork sando. However, the swordfish's taste and tenderness set it apart, making it a remarkable dish.

Pistachio Tiramisu 3/5

The dessert, Pistachio Tiramisu, was a moist creation with a creamy pool of pistachio sauce drenching it, and pistachio nuts adding a delightful texture. Unfortunately, the pistachio flavour was somewhat subdued, leaving room for improvement.

In conclusion, The Feather Blade Steakhouse's East Coast outlet has successfully brought a unique blend of land and sea to the whole experience. With its alternative cuts of beef and the addition of a seafood bar, it continues to redefine the steakhouse experience, offering a symphony of flavours that will surely resonate with steak and seafood enthusiasts alike.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Feather Blade | Steak & Seafood Bar
225 East Coast Road
Singapore 428922
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Marine Parade (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 530pm - 11pm
Tue-Fri: 12pm - 330pm, 530pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 1130am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 7 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 18 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Marine Parade MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to Chapel Road. Turn left onto Chapel Road. Walk down Chapel Road to East Coast Road. Cross the road at East Coast Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Moxie @ Alumni Association Medical Centre (SGH) - A Modern Mediterranean Dining and Lifestyle Destination

Moxie, the fresh-faced Mediterranean dining and lifestyle haven, has gracefully descended upon the Alumni Association Medical Centre (SGH), replacing the erstwhile Kah Soh. Transforming the space into a modern beach house with a lively coastal vibe, Moxie offers a delectable array of shared plates and refreshing cocktails throughout the day.

The ambiance at Moxie is a breath of fresh air—literally. The modern beach house aesthetic is both inviting and chic, transporting diners to sun-soaked coastal getaways. The airy and vibrant atmosphere complements the Mediterranean fare perfectly, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal or casual gatherings.

Moxie Dip Platter with Sourdough/Pita 4.5/5

Kickstarting the coastal journey, we dived into the Moxie Dip Platter with Sourdough ($22). The platter offers a trio of delightful dips—Spinach Yogurt, Smashed Kabocha, and Whipped Ricotta. Each dip is a star in its own right, but if one has to be crowned, the Whipped Ricotta takes the throne. The interplay of textures and flavours, coupled with the choice of either Sourdough or Pita, is a crowd-pleaser.

Burrata 4.8/5

The Italian Burrata ($19) is a masterpiece. Paired with pickled red beets, charred grapes, pistachio dukkah, and red beet gel, the dish is a symphony of colours and flavours. The creaminess of the burrata finds harmony with the tanginess of the beets and sweetness of the grapes, creating a palate-pleasing experience.

Spiced Corn Ribs 4.5/5

The Spiced Corn Ribs ($16) are a revelation. Dressed in cumin-infused aioli, grated feta, and lime, the corn bursts with flavors. Eating it like a rib, squeezing lime included, adds an interactive element to the dish, enhancing the sweetness of the corn.

Grouper Crudo 4.5/5

The Grouper Crudo ($25) is a highlight for seafood enthusiasts. Local flower grouper meets Zhoug coulis, pickled Japanese cucumber, and diced red radish, creating a refreshing and vibrant dish. The coriander seeds sprinkled on top add a final layer of complexity.

Arugula Pesto Orecchiette 4.2/5

The Arugula Pesto Orecchiette ($38) is a flavorful pasta dish. Al dente orecchiette, sautéed prawns and scallops, crab meat, shaved parmesan, fresh arugula, and toasted pine nuts come together harmoniously, offering a medley of textures and flavors.

Catch of The Day - Fillet (200g) 4.2/5

The Catch of The Day (Fillet, $42, 200g) showcases the versatility of Moxie. With a weekly rotation of fish, the pan-fried fillet with clarified butter, browned almonds, and capers is a delightful dish. The moist fish comes with a hint of smokiness, nuttiness from almonds, and tanginess from capers, creating a symphony of flavours.

Moxie Mille Feuille 4.8/5

Save room for dessert, as Moxie's Mille Feuille ($19) is a showstopper. Layers of filo pastry, whipped cream cheese, strawberries, and blueberries, crowned with kataifi and raspberry, deliver a sweet ending with myriad textures.

Dark Chocolate Mousse 4.5/5

Concluding the feast is the Dark Chocolate Mousse ($16). Rich dark chocolate meets hazelnut ice cream, berry compote, toasted hazelnuts, and streusel, creating a well-balanced and indulgent dessert.

Moxie succeeds in bringing the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean to Singapore's shore. From the captivating ambience to the thoughtfully crafted dishes, each aspect of the dining experience at Moxie reflects a commitment to quality and creativity. The menu's diversity caters to various palates, ensuring that Moxie stands out as a delightful addition to Singapore's F&B scene. Whether you're craving a leisurely lunch or a lively dinner, Moxie beckons with its coastal charm and culinary prowess.

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 destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Mosella @ Pan Pacific Orchard - New Chic Restaurant at Pan Pacific Orchard Hotel

Nestled on the second floor of Pan Pacific Orchard in the heart of Orchard Road, Mosella is a culinary haven offering a fusion of Mediterranean and Peruvian-inspired cuisine. The restaurant boasts an enchanting setting perched over a waterfall and surrounded by lush foliage, providing a unique dining experience. Helmed by Executive Chef Pedro Samper, a San Sebastian native, the menu features a wide range of delectable dishes, from fresh ceviches to expertly prepared premium cuts grilled over a charcoal fire. Guests can choose from an à la carte menu or enjoy three-course set lunches and dinners, regularly updated to keep the experience fresh for returning patrons.

Salmon Tataki Tiradito 4.2/5

The Salmon Tataki Tiradito ($32) is a stunning dish that balances delicate and bold flavours. It features thinly sliced seared salmon, elevated by a vibrant mango salsa and burnt orange, which brings a sweet and citrusy touch to the plate. The dish is adorned with ikura, which offers bursts of briny and salty pops and finished with tahini, a creamy and nutty sauce that ties all the elements together.

Hamachi Tiradito 4/5

The Hamachi Tiradito ($36) combines fresh, thinly sliced Hamachi with a Mandarin Ponzu sauce that offers a zesty and slightly sweet contrast. The addition of truffle adds an earthy and luxurious note, while delicate garlic chips provide texture and a subtle savoury flavour. This dish represents a sophisticated blend of flavours and textures, showcasing Mosella's culinary creativity and commitment to using premium ingredients.

Gambas Al Ajillo 3.8/5

The Gambas Al Ajillo ($40) at Mosella is a classic Spanish dish featuring tender king prawns cooked to perfection in a fragrant garlic oil infused with a touch of chilli, adding pleasant heat to the dish. The use of garlic oil infuses the prawns with a rich and aromatic garlic flavour, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Black Cod 4.2/5

The Black Cod ($62) features a luxurious and buttery fish known for its fork-tender texture. It was expertly prepared to perfection, ensuring it practically melts in your mouth. The dish includes fresh green peas for a touch of sweetness, celeriac for an earthy note, and a zesty salsa verde that adds a vibrant note. The asparagus provides a crisp and fresh element to the plate.

Beef Tenderloin 4.2/5

The Beef Tenderloin ($48) is presented distinctively - served on two metal skewers. The beef is expertly roasted with a blend of aromatic spices, enhancing its flavour and tenderness. Accompanied by chilli oil and Anticucho sauce, a Peruvian-style marinade known for its bold and savoury character, the dish offers a harmonious balance of savoury and spicy flavours. The creamy potato puree adds a comforting element to the ensemble, complementing the beef's richness and spices. This dish is rich, flavourful, and a must-try for those seeking a satisfying and indulgent dining experience.

Japanese Sweet Corn 3.8/5

The Japanese Sweet Corn ($12) is a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. It features tender Japanese sweet corn generously drizzled with tangy lime miso butter for creaminess. The Aji Panca adds smokiness and mild heat, while togarashi provides a gentle kick of spiciness and a hint of umami. The dish offers a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and spicy flavours, showcasing the restaurant's culinary creativity and expertise.

Cacao 4/5

The Cacao ($22) is an interactive and delightful sweet treat. It features a Manjari chocolate tart with a rich cocoa filling encased in delicate pastry. The unique presentation lets you crack open the top part of the tart with a spoon, revealing a creamy hazelnut and caramel filling. This dessert offers a symphony of flavours, from deep chocolate to nuttiness and buttery sweetness, providing a memorable and indulgent way to end your meal at the restaurant.

Tarta de Queso 4.5/5

The Tarta de Ques ($24) features a creamy Burnt Basque Cheesecake, accompanied by apple for a fruity and slightly tart note, finished with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for sweetness. The combination of warm cheesecake and cold ice cream offers a delightful temperature contrast, providing a satisfying and memorable conclusion to our dining experience.

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.


Mosella
Pan Pacific Orchard
10 Claymore Road
Singapore 229540
Tel: +65 6991 6875
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast (Daily): 630am - 1030am
Lunch (Daily): 12pm - 230pm
Dinner (Mon-Thu): 6pm - 10pm
Dinner (Fri-Sat, PH): 6pm - 1030pm

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 to Palais Renaissance which is right after Royal Thai Embassy. Cut through Palais Renaissance to the other side of the building. Pan Pacific Orchard is opposite the building. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]