Dew by Whitegrass @ Chijmes - A Rendezvous of Delightful Flavours and Social Enchantment

In the heart of Chijmes, Dew by Whitegrass emerges as a vibrant nexus where gastronomy meets social engagement. This casual offshoot, nestled in the heritage wing, presents an enticing amalgamation of curated small plates adorned with an Asian touch. It beckons as a dynamic hub for casual rendezvous, after-work libations, and late-night gatherings, fusing a convivial atmosphere with a tapestry of delectable cuisine.

Molten Cheese 3.5/5

We started with the Molten Cheese ($28), a platter showcasing molten brie, grapefruit jam, chimichurri sauce, and crispy crostini. It is an ideal prelude, setting the stage for the dinner that follows.

Hokkaido Pearls 3.8/5

Next on our culinary sojourn were the Hokkaido Pearls ($26) - scallops cloaked in a light batter, deep-fried to a golden crisp. Paired with pickled tartar and dipped in lemon garlic soy sauce, they delivered a delightful symphony of textures and flavours.

Potato Bombs 3/5

A delightful interlude arrived in the form of Potato Bombs ($10) - bite-sized potato fritters in three flavours: original, anchovy, and curry. The anchovy variant, with its savoury notes, proved particularly addictive.

Prosciutto On Brioche 4.2/5

A morsel of joy awaited us with the Prosciutto On Brioche ($15). Savoury prosciutto atop stracciatella cheese, nestled on Whitegrass's famed house-baked black sesame brioche - a harmonious blend of flavours.

Cheese Choux Puff 4/5

Indulge in the airy decadence of the Cheese Choux Puff ($10). These fluffy delights, adorned with shredded Parmigiano and a sprinkle of black pepper, present a perfect harmony of rich cheese flavour and a peppery kick. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures and a burst of savoury goodness.

Unagi Meet Tamago 4/5

In a surprising fusion of flavours, the Unagi Meet Tamago ($18) unveils an unexpected yet harmonious combination of sweet unagi and creamy tamago, bound together with the luscious touch of house-made mayonnaise. This dish's interplay of textures and tastes creates a delightful and memorable culinary experience.

Pink Ocean 4.2/5

The Pink Ocean ($22), a dual platter featuring chef-smoked salmon and hamachi, unfolded as a maritime masterpiece on the palate. The smoked salmon, adorned with sweet and sour pickled purple onions and a dash of aiyori sauce, presented a dance of flavours. On the other hand, the hamachi, dehydrated overnight and embellished with soy sauce, anchovies, and black olives, showcased a sophisticated blend paired with ohba and daikon. The creation embodied a light and clean oceanic experience that tantalized the taste buds with its nuanced symphony of tastes.

Yuzu Kosho Seaweed Pasta 4/5

The Yuzu Kosho Seaweed Pasta ($20) stood out as a testament to innovative culinary prowess. The al dente tagliatelle, entwined with seaweed and yuzu pepper, delivered a harmonious blend of textures. Crowned with ikura and a choice of salmon or prosciutto, this dish was an unexpected yet delightful marriage of Japanese and Mediterranean influences. The zesty yuzu pepper played a captivating role, infusing each bite with a burst of citrusy freshness, transforming a familiar pasta dish into a symphony of unique and pleasing notes.

'R' IGA Ribeye $58

Resting gracefully on a bed of sautéed spinach, the 'R' IGA Wagyu A4 ribeye showcased the pinnacle of Mie Prefecture's renowned wagyu. Delicately seared for the perfect charred exterior and marbled tenderness within, this prized cut of IGA wagyu ribeye unfolded an indulgent appreciation. Enjoy it in three distinctive ways: in its unadulterated glory, with a special house-made sauce marrying red wine jus and Japanese soy sauce, or paired with the fresh kick of wasabi. Each presentation offered a unique perspective on the exquisite flavour profile of this premium wagyu cut.

DEW Set Lunch - Shiok! Oji Chick Don 4/5

An irresistible proposition, the Dew Set Lunch presented the Shiok! Oji Chick Don ($28) features shio koji-marinated chicken with jalapeno atop Japanese Koshihikari rice. It is a gem, accompanied by otoshi and a salad of the day, offering exceptional value for money.

Immerse yourself in the culinary charisma of Dew by Whitegrass - a rendezvous of delightful flavours and social enchantment.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Dew by Whitegrass
Chijmes
30 Victoria Street
#01-27A
Singapore 187996
Tel: +65 9067 3891
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Bras Basah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Cut across Raffles City Shopping Centre to Bras Basah Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and North Bridge Road, cross the road to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Bras Basah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk southwards towards Victoria Road. At the junction of Bras Basah Road and Victoria Road, cross the junction to Chijmes. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Fat Cow @ Camden Medical Centre - Launches New Lunch Set Menus and Additional A La Carte Items

Embarking on a culinary odyssey at Fat Cow, tucked in the heart of Camden Medical Centre, guarantees a voyage into the realm of refined Japanese dining. Enriched by a renewed set lunch menu, this establishment, a culinary staple since 2011, persists in refining the Wagyu encounter through intricate curation.

Priced from $45++, the set lunches are a comprehensive affair, featuring a salad, miso soup, chawanmushi, a choice of mains, and a dessert of the day. A symphony of flavours unfolds, inviting patrons into exquisite Wagyu indulgence.

Sous-vide Toriyama Wagyu Don 5/5

The highlight of the new set lunch mains, the Sous-vide Toriyama Wagyu Don ($55++), is a masterpiece. Slow-cooked Toriyama Wagyu from Gunma Prefecture graces a bed of Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi sushi rice. Sliced onions, chives, shio konbu, and housemade truffle ponzu sauce complement the dish, culminating in an explosion of umami flavours. Topped with a Japanese egg yolk, truffle shavings, and edible gold flakes, this donburi stands out as one of the best, boasting complexity and depth.

Pure Wagyu Hamburger Steak 4.8/5

The Pure Wagyu Hamburger Steak ($58++) is another gem among the set lunch mains. Crafted from 100% pure Wagyu minced patty, grilled over binchotan, it arrives with seasonal vegetables and Fat Cow's signature 'Fat Rice.' The flavorful and juicy minced patty paired with the hearty Fat Rice, seasoned with kombu, truffle, and rendered Wagyu fat, is a delightful combination, elevating the dining experience.

Australian Imperial Blossom F4 Wagyu 4.8/5

For those seeking pure beef indulgence, the Australian Imperial Blossom F4 Wagyu, available a la carte at $108++ for 200g, is a stellar addition. Renowned for its exceptional marbling, this Wagyu striploin offers unparalleled tenderness, succulence, and umami flavour. Accompanied by pickled Sri Lankan black pepper, Kizami Wasabi, and Sea Salt, each bite unveils a different facet of premium Wagyu indulgence.

Honeycomb Vanilla Ice Cream 3.5/5

As a sweet conclusion to the set lunch, a scoop of Honeycomb Vanilla Ice Cream provides a refreshing note. Smooth, creamy, and delicious, it also serves as a delightful palate cleanser after all the richness.

Housemade Yuzu Cheesecake 4/5

The Housemade Yuzu Cheesecake ($22++) is a revelation for those craving a tangy finish. Silky cream cheese and freshly shredded yuzu create a harmonious blend, delivering creaminess, tanginess, and the zest of yuzu in every bite.

Fat Cow's new set of lunch menus celebrates Wagyu artistry, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to providing an unparalleled Japanese dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fat Cow
Camden Medical Centre
1 Orchard Boulevard
#01-01/02
Singapore 248649
Tel: +65 6735 0308
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

Toko Yakitori @ Dhoby Ghaut - Savour Smoky Chicken Yakitori at Latest Yakitori Hotspot by Michelin-Starred Chef Taisei Iwao

Enjoy 30% off all yakitori selections during the last week of December at the latest yakitori hotspot, Toko Yakitori. With a menu masterfully curated by Michelin-starred Chef Taisei Iwao, you know you are in for a treat.

Nestled in the cosy 14-seater restaurant adjacent to Ganko Sushi at Dhoby Ghaut's UBS Building, the star yakitori offerings are complemented by a menu featuring sashimi, mains, soups, salads, and sides.

Yellowtail Carpaccio with Yuzu Pepper 4/5

The Yellowtail Carpaccio with Yuzu Pepper ($18) served as a decent starter to whet our appetites. Slices of yellowtail sashimi were topped with a hint of yuzu pepper, providing a salty-spicy and citrusy punch. My only gripe is that they are thinly cut.

Whole Fruit Tomato Salad 4.5/5

Go for the Whole Fruit Tomato Salad ($9) for something refreshing and sweet. While the portion might be on the smaller side, the flavours are anything but. The tangy and bright onion-based light sweet sauce perfectly complements the sweet tomatoes imported from the Kōchi prefecture.

Chicken Wing Gyoza 4.5/5

The Chicken Wing Gyoza ($9) is made with deboned wings, re-stuffed with gyoza filling and fried to a crunch. Biting into the tender and juicy meat with bits of chives was satisfying.

Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken 4.8/5

The Sweet and Spicy Fried Chicken ($9) was a pleasant surprise. The chicken chunks were deep-fried to an addictive airy crunch before being dressed in a vibrant, sweet sauce with a hint of heat. The silky yolk added a creaminess to balance.

Yakitori 4.5/5

I was excited to finally tuck into the main highlight of the restaurant, their Yakitori selection. We tried several sticks, including Chicken & Green Onions ($5), Breast ($4.50) and Skin ($4.50). They impressed me with the perfect char and smokiness, and the Chicken & Green Onions stood out as my favourite.

Other chicken options include Tail ($4.50), Heart ($4), Cartilage ($4.50), and more. Diners can choose to have the chicken yakitori finished with sauce or salt. The menu also features a variety of vegetable yakitori, including Zucchini ($7), Kaga Lotus Root ($5), Grilled Eggplant ($4), and more.

A tray of spice powders awaits at every table, featuring options like Bird Eye Chilli, Seven Spices, Yuzu Chilli, and more. These add an extra layer of flavour to the diverse yakitori selection. My favourite is always the Yuzu Chilli for the zesty spice.

Wing 4.5/5

Another standout yakitori item was the Wing ($5). Thoughtfully wrapped in foil for convenience of consumption, its skin was crisp while retaining a juicy interior.

Tsukune 4.2/5

Their Tsukune ($5) might not be the best of what we've had in terms of texture and juiciness, but they are still grilled to an above-average standard. Pairing them with the yolk adds a delightful touch of creaminess.

Chicken Stock Ramen 4.8/5

The Chicken Stock Ramen ($12) was an absolute comfort. The small portion featured thin al dente ramen noodles in a semi-clear chicken broth, accompanied by a slice of chicken and half an egg. The richness of the chicken broth, coupled with a subtle sweetness, created a well-rounded flavour profile. Needless to say, I wiped this clean very quickly, and I hope the restaurant considers offering a full portion in the near future!

Oyako Don 4.2/5

Concluding our dining experience with the classic Oyako Don ($6) was a delightful choice. The bowl featured a generous serving of tender chicken chunks, topped with velvety eggs, resting on a rice bed. While this much wetter rendition might not appeal to everyone, I enjoyed the harmonious blend of flavours.

If you enjoy beef and curry, make sure to try out Iwao Chef Curry ($8), introduced to the menu as a nod to Chef Iwao's favourite dish. It is, of course, crafted with his signature curry recipe using braised beef and the natural sweetness of a combination of fruits.

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.


Toko Yakitori
9 Penang Road
#01-02
Singapore 238459
Tel: +65 8289 0772
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Nearest MRT: Dhoby Ghaut (CC, NE, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dhoby Ghaut MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk straight to Penang Road. Cross the right. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Maguro Samurai @ Robertson Quay - New Modern “Fish Market” Izakaya Specialising in Unique Tuna Parts, Overflowing Ikura Dons and More

Maguro Samurai, a new addition to the Robertson Quay dining scene, brings a modern 'fish market-style' izakaya concept to Singapore. Associated with Kansushi, the restaurant takes pride in its range of authentic Japanese dishes, including items uncommonly found in Singapore.

The interesting 'fish market' concept allows diners to first take their pick from a display of seafood imported from Japan and then decide on a preferred cooking method. Some of these include sashimi, grilled and sushi.

For its interior, several samurai swords are on display, alongside an impressive collection of Japanese alcohols, most of which are available for order.

Avocado Shiokobu Ae 4/5

Our first dish was the Avocado Shiokobu Ae ($9), which had cubes of creamy avocado tossed in salted kelp and topped with bonito. We enjoyed this lightly savoury starter but wished it came in a more significant portion for its price.

Maguro Yukke 4.5/5

Next up, we had their Maguro Yukke ($38). Crack the silky raw egg yolk and mix it thoroughly to let the yolk coat each piece of tuna. The tuna chunks, marinated in a flavorful spicy sauce, matched harmoniously.

Negitoro Bucket 3.8/5

The Negitoro Bucket ($28) comprises minced fatty tuna and is meant to be savoured as a spread on crunchy baguette slices. While the additional garlic butter on the baguette was clever, we found it quite average overall.

Maguro Sashimi Mori 4.5/5

Tuna lovers should check out the Maguro Sashimi Mori ($52), which showcases four different tuna sashimi cuts. We had fresh and thick slices of Otoro (fatty tuna), Chutoro (medium fatty tuna), Maguro Zuniku (tuna head meat) and Akami (Bluefin tuna).

Grilled Maguro Zuniku 4.5/5

After enjoying the sashimi version, we were excited to try the Grilled Maguro Zuniku ($38). The grilled tuna head meat carried a bit of a soft, fatty texture and was done tender and smoky.

Grilled Maguro Hohoniku 4.5/5

Similarly, the Grilled Maguro Hohoniku ($16) was also grilled expertly, with the tuna cheek meat retaining its buttery and firm yet tender bite. The simple condiments of fresh wasabi, salt and garlic chips were more than sufficient.

Ninniku Syoyu Engawa Don 4.2/5

We had two different dons, the first being the Ninniku Syoyu Engawa Don (Flounder fin garlic flavour rice bowl). It was quite a small bowl, but we were impressed by the buttery slices of melt-in-your-mouth Engawa.

Ikura Kobore Don 4/5

The presentation of the Ikura Kobore Don ($39) was a whole visual treat. The chef first began a short performance on his drums while one of his servers generously topped on spoons of ikura synchronised to the rhythm of the beats. The don was finished with a shimmering spray of gold dust. While the plump ikura was briny and flavourful, this is definitely best as a sharing dish for 3 or more pax.

Kakigori 3.8/5

Dessert was a traditional Japanese offering, a freshly made calamansi-flavoured Kakigori. The layers of shaved ice here are thicker with a soft texture. It was refreshing, albeit a bit sweet.

Overall, the dishes we sampled at Maguro Samurai were indeed of decent quality; however, the general pricing was also relatively high.

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.


Maguro Samurai
Village Residence Robertson Quay
#01-16
30 Robertson Quay
Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 6320 3637
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 4pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Kakushin @ Scotts Square - Authentic Japanese Omakase with an Imaginative Twist

Nestled in the heart of Orchard, Scotts Square is Kakushin, a Japanese Omakase restaurant that offers a captivating journey through the seasons of Japan. With a seating capacity of 46, the restaurant provides an intimate and immersive dining experience. Chef Chan, the culinary visionary behind Kakushin, showcases his innovation by using the freshest and highest-quality seasonal ingredients sourced directly from renowned markets such as Toyosu Market and speciality farms in Japan.

We tried their 7-course Lunch Omakase ($168), which includes an appetiser, Carpaccio, Seasonal Warm Dish, Chef-curated Nigiri Sushi, Chef's Seasonal Dish, Soup and Dessert.

Appetizer 4.2/5

The 7-course omakase commences with an Appetizer featuring an Oyster delicately crowned with ikura and yuzu jelly. It is exceptionally fresh, exhibiting a plump and juicy texture. The toppings of ikura and yuzu jelly complement the oyster beautifully, adding layers of flavour depth to this delectable start to the meal.

Carpaccio 4.2/5

The omakase experience progresses with a captivating Carpaccio featuring uni, edible flowers, black caviar, and expertly balanced umami seasonings. This course presents a visually stunning and harmonious composition of premium ingredients, promising a truly delightful course in this omakase journey.

Seasonal Warm Dish 4/5

The next course introduces a Seasonal Warm Dish, showcasing fried Sakura Ebi that offers a delightful contrast of crunchiness and crispiness.

Chef-Curated Nigiri Sushi 4.2/5

The following course presents a platter of Chef-Curated Nigiri Sushi, including selections like flounder, sea bream, and tuna belly, each piece meticulously handcrafted to perfection. This visually pleasing and appetising presentation showcases not only fresh but also impeccably executed sushi, underscoring the chef's culinary mastery.

Chef's Seasonal Dish 4/5

The Chef's Seasonal Dish graces the dining experience with a mini donburi adorned with ikura, tuna, mushrooms, seaweed, spring onions, and delicate edible flowers. This dish is a visual and culinary masterpiece, presenting a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.

Soup 3.8/5

Next is the Kakushin Omakase Soup. Despite its unassuming appearance, this soup is a true gem. It is not overly rich to the point of being heavy, but instead, it warms both body and soul, akin to a comforting embrace.

Dessert 4/5

To conclude this delightful culinary journey, the Dessert course offers a lovely pairing of sweet Muscat Grapes with zesty sour lime jelly. This combination promises a harmonious balance of flavours, offering a refreshing and sweet-tart note to round off the meal on a satisfying and palate-cleansing note.

Salmon Ikura Don 4/5

The Salmon Ikura Don features fresh salmon slices, briny ikura, and seasoned sushi rice. It's a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, with additional garnishes like pickled ginger and wasabi and a soft and fluffy tamago. Next is the salad appetiser, followed by Chawanmushi, seaweed soup, and dessert, consisting of a sweet mango mochi.

The Chef's Lunch 5-course set offers an excellent alternative for diners seeking a more budget-friendly option than the more extensive 7, 8, or 10-course omakase menus.

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.


Kakushin
6 Scotts Road
#02-03
Singapore 228209
Tel: +65 9728 6813
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Scotts Road. Turn right onto Scotts Road. Walk down Scotts Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]