Showing posts with label Duck. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Duck. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Pulsii French Bistro @ Tras Street - Where French Finesse Meets Japanese Precision

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Formerly known as Pulsii Woodfire Restaurant, the establishment has now rebranded itself as Pulsii French Bistro, ushering in a new era of refined French cuisine imbued with the subtle artistry of Japanese technique. Helmed by Chef Daisuke Yoshikawa, whose culinary pedigree includes experience in Michelin-starred Japanese kitchens, the restaurant now offers an elegant lineup of small plates and mains that showcase his signature precision and flair.

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Chef Canape's - 3 Kinds 4.2/5

Dinner commenced on a high note with the Chef Canape's – 3 Kinds ($20). This delightful trio of bite-sized creations includes a red prawn tartlet topped with ikura, a foie gras croquette, and a cheese-filled canelé. Each offered a unique interplay of texture and flavour, creating an enticing preview of what's to come.

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Brandade Croquettes, Chicken Liver Mousse, Uni Seaweed Brioche 4.2/5

We continued with an elegant trio of small bites, each delivering a distinct expression of flavour and craftsmanship. The Brandade Croquette ($4) was delicately crisp on the outside, breaking apart to reveal a warm, creamy interior of salted cod and potato, a comforting blend elevated by subtle seasoning. The Chicken Liver Mousse ($8) was decadently smooth and rich, its earthy intensity tempered by a hint of sweetness, spread luxuriously atop a crisp toast. Completing the trio was the Uni Seaweed Brioche ($15), a decadent bite where briny, buttery sea urchin melted into the warm, pillowy brioche, subtly perfumed by seaweed. Together, these bites formed a symphony of textures and flavours, refined and deeply satisfying.

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Yuzu Cervelle De Canut 4.2/5

The Yuzu Cervelle De Canut ($29) was a fun, multi-sensory dish that surprised and delighted. Silky tuna sashimi paired with a bright yuzu cheese dip and topped with caviar created layers of freshness, acidity, and umami. The crispy potato gaufrettes served on the side allowed you to assemble your perfect bite, which is both playful and sophisticated.

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Grilled Yellowtail 4.8/5

One of the standout dishes of the night was the Grilled Yellowtail ($26). Thick slices of yellowtail were perfectly grilled for a light smoky char, then finished with burnt mandarin orange and watermelon radish for acidity and crunch. Resting on a vibrant shungiku puree, the dish was a masterclass in balance that is rich yet refreshing.

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Grilled Lamb Tenderloin 3.8/5

The Grilled Lamb Tenderloin ($25), served medium rare, came paired with spring onion puree, anchovy, and Kanzuri chilli oil. While the lamb was tender, the flavour lacked the natural gaminess that lamb lovers might expect. The chilli oil pairing, while creative, felt discordant and didn't quite lift the dish.

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Magret Duck Breast 4.2/5

The Magret Duck Breast ($55) fared better, with its juicy, tender slices and rich duck fat under crisped skin delivering on flavour. Paired with a miso balsamic sauce and maitake mushrooms, this dish struck a more satisfying balance of depth and umami.

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Rack of Iberico Pork 200g 4/5

Closing off the savoury courses was the Rack of Iberico Pork ($40), a generous cut served atop creamy mashed potato and crispy fried corn. The pork was succulent and well-cooked, though the dish could have benefited from a more assertive, tangy sauce to fully elevate the meat's natural sweetness.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pulsii French Bistro
55 Tras Street
Singapore 078994
Tel: +65 9689 8407
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

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]

Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Wild Blaze @ Tras Street - Newly Launched $38++ Lunch Set At a Premium Dining Experience

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Located along the bustling street of Tras Street, Wild Blaze is a premium steakhouse that has been quietly making waves since its opening nine months ago. This elegant establishment is helmed by Chef Nic Wong, who spent 12 years as the executive chef at Brasserie Gavroche before taking over the space. At Wild Blaze, the dining experience extends beyond perfectly cooked steaks – it's about craftsmanship, attention to detail, and an all-around elevated experience.

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The restaurant exudes sophistication, with plush interiors, warm lighting and exceptional service. Their newly launched $38++ lunch set offers incredible value despite the fine-dining ambience. With quality ingredients, hearty portions, and thoughtful presentation, it's a steal!

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Foccacia Bread with Sundried Tomato Butter
Focaccia with Sundried Tomato Butter 4/5

Each set begins with a serving of their homemade Focaccia paired with Sun-Dried Tomato Butter — a combination so delicious that it's hard to stop at just one slice. The butter is rich, tangy, and aromatic, elevating the freshly baked bread effortlessly.

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Chef Nic presented us with four out of the five appetiser choices (the fifth being a Beetroot Salad with Goat Cheese). Here's what we tasted:

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Clam Chowder 4.2/5

This comforting bowl of Clam Chowder was rich without being overly heavy. Brimming with ingredients, the soup was creamy, flavourful and satisfying.

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Salmon Tartare 4/5

A visual delight, the Salmon Tartare (+$4) was fresh and well-balanced, with crème fraîche, chives and cucumber pickles adding a nice zing. It paired beautifully with their house focaccia – we recommend saving a piece (or asking for more) to mop up the goodness.

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Fried Calamari 3/5

While we appreciated the use of fresh squid, the Fried Calamari was slightly over-fried, resulting in a tougher texture. The seasoning was spot on, and the chorizo aioli added a nice kick, but the chewiness slightly overshadowed the dish.

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Melon Ham 3.8/5

A classic combination of sweet Melon and savoury Ham. While the flavours worked, the portion felt a bit lean – just three slices of ham to a generous heap of melon. Still, it was a refreshing start to the meal.

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We sampled three of the five main options. Grilled Miso Salmon and Beef Bourguignon Bone Marrow Pie were not featured.

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Fettuccine Crab Pasta 4.2/5

The Fettuccine Crab Pasta was a delightful surprise. The tomato-based sauce, subtly spiced, reminded us of our local dish - chilli crab. Generous shreds of crab clung to every al dente strand of pasta, delivering a flavourful, comforting bite. It grew on us quickly – not a strand was left behind!

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Vintage Ribeye 4.2/5

Another thing Chef Nic takes pride in, other than great cooking, is ageing meats. Their ageing room is visible to all guests, where premium cuts of meat undergo a meticulous transformation, enhancing their natural flavours and creating unparalleled depth. This process is overseen by Chef Nic Wong, who travelled to Italy to earn his certification from the prestigious Stagionello Academy. His mastery of ageing techniques elevates every steak to a true work of art.

For just $10 more, you can upgrade to their Vintage Ribeye – a must-try. The steak was beautifully seared, well-seasoned and cooked to our preferred medium doneness. It had a familiar depth of flavour reminiscent of Cantonese roast pork on our first bite, which was both surprising and enjoyable. Served with bearnaise sauce and the in-house fries, which were crisp and addictive – no frozen alternatives here! Tip: Request for the mini chopper instead of the regular steak knife for cute photos.

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Duck Parmentier 3.8/5

The Duck Parmentier felt like a French twist on shepherd's pie, featuring shredded duck beneath a layer of mashed potatoes. While flavourful and comforting, it leaned a bit heavy and dry after several bites. It works better as a sharing dish than being a main dish.

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Apple Pie 3.8/5

To end the meal, we tried both dessert options. Served with Madagascar vanilla ice cream, the Apple Pie featured apple slices that retained their crunch. Not too sweet and fragrant from real vanilla beans, it's a lovely ending for those who enjoy a fruity dessert.

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Crème Brûlée 4.5/5

This is a clear winner in our books. Creamy, silky, and with just the right level of sweetness, the Crème Brûlée was rich and satisfying, with a perfectly torched caramel top. It was a standout finish to the meal.

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Wild Blaze’s $38++ set lunch offers tremendous value for a premium dining experience. With its sophisticated setting, warm hospitality and Chef Nic’s thoughtful menu, it’s a treat for both steak lovers and those seeking quality European fare. There’s also a well-curated wine selection for those who wish to pair their meal with a glass (or two).

For private occasions, the restaurant features an intimate dining room that seats up to 12 guests. The minimum spend for lunch is $2,000, and for dinner, it is $4,000 — ideal for celebrations or corporate gatherings.

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


Wild Blaze
66 Tras Street
Singapore 079005
Tel: +65 9371 3900
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

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

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]

Friday, April 11, 2025

Sodeng @ Amoy - Singapore’s First Korean BBQ with Grilled Duck

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If you're a fan of Korean BBQ and looking for something beyond the usual beef and pork, Sodeng at Amoy Street is a must-visit. Brought to you by the same folks behind Um Yong Baek, Sodeng is not only dishing out premium cuts of meat but is also Singapore's first Korean BBQ restaurant to serve grilled duck.

While there are two Sodeng outlets in the Telok Ayer vicinity, I visited the one located along Amoy Street. This sleek and modern space offers a traditional Korean BBQ experience elevated by meticulous service and tableside grilling by the attentive staff.

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Exclusive Butcher's Cut 4.5/5

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We began our meal with the Exclusive Butcher's Cut (Seasonal Price), a premium beef selection featuring cuts with gorgeous marbling. Grilled to perfection by the staff, what stood out was how the team went above and beyond by demonstrating multiple ways to enjoy the beef—pairing it with peppercorn, grilled kimchi, or wrapping it with shiso leaves. These extra touches helped bring out different flavour profiles in the meat and enhanced the entire dining experience, setting Sodeng apart from many other K-BBQ spots.

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Fresh Plain Duck 4.2/5

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One of Sodeng's biggest draws is its grilled duck, a first for Korean BBQ in Singapore. The Fresh Plain Duck ($34/pax), made from young duck, is thinly sliced and boasts succulent, tender meat once grilled. The staff guided us through the grilling process and even suggested the best way to enjoy the duck with different condiments. It's a refreshing alternative to the usual meats offered at K-BBQ joints.

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3072 Woo-Dae Galbi 4.8/5

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The 3072 Woo-Dae Galbi ($45/pax) is the undisputed star of the dinner. This premium prime-grade beef rib is marinated for 72 hours in a special house-made sauce that includes a whopping 30 ingredients. Served whole on the bone and cut tableside before grilling, the beef is juicy, rich, and deeply flavourful, with each bite bursting with umami. For an extra indulgent twist, you can pair the grilled galbi with melted cheese – a sinful but delicious touch.

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Frice Rice 4.5/5

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Once you're done with the galbi, the staff can use the remaining beef fat and trimmings to cook up a glorious Fried Rice ($17 for 2 pax) on the grill. Cooked with kimchi, seaweed, vegetables, and cheese, the result is a plate of deeply flavourful, hearty fried rice that perfectly rounds off the meal.

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Grilled Pork Collar 4.5/5

Not to be missed is the Charcoal Grilled Pork Collar ($27/pax), made from the finest pork neck, marinated in a special soy blend, and grilled over charcoal. The result is tender, juicy pork with a satisfying smoky flavour that lingers on the palate. It's a great alternative if you're not in the mood for beef or duck.

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Spicy Toft Tofu Stew 4.2/5

Beyond BBQ, Sodeng also offers a solid range of a la carte dishes. The Spicy Tofu Stew ($17) is comforting and robust, with silky soft tofu in a spicy broth made from house seasoning. It's well-balanced, rich, and flavourful – exactly what you'd expect from a great Soondubu Jjigae.

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Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodles 3/5

We also tried the Spicy Kimchi Cold Noodles ($17) to balance the grilled meats. The noodles were chewy and bouncy, tossed in a tangy and spicy kimchi sauce. While the flavour profile was on point, the broth wasn't cold enough, and the portion was slightly too dry with minimal broth.

Sodeng isn't your typical Korean BBQ joint. From exclusive cuts and thoughtful service to being the first in Singapore to offer grilled duck, it brings a unique and elevated K-BBQ experience that's both traditional and modern. Whether you're a Korean BBQ regular or a curious foodie looking to try something new, Sodeng's impressive selection and execution make it worth the visit. Don't skip the 3072 Woo-Dae Galbi, and be sure to save space for that fried rice at the end!


Sodeng
88 Amoy Street
Singapore 069907
Tel: +65 96158785
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm
Sat: 1130am - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk down Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, April 6, 2025

Riviera @ One Fullerton - Experience the Diverse Flavours of The Mediterranean

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Nestled on the second floor of One Fullerton, Riviera offers more than just a dining experience — it's a visual and culinary journey across the diverse flavours of the Mediterranean. Overlooking the breathtaking Marina Bay waterfront and Singapore's iconic Merlion, Riviera is the perfect spot for a romantic night out, a special celebration, or an indulgent evening of fine dining.

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Before dinner, start with a pre-dinner drink at the elegant lounge. With the gorgeous view and luxurious ambience, it's the ideal setting to ease into the evening.

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Our visit saw us try the Taste of The Riviera 4-course dinner menu ($128++ per pax). It began with a complimentary trio of bread — charcoal Parmesan Bagel, Brioche, and Sourdough — paired with salted butter. Each had its own texture and flavour profile, which was a great introduction to attention to detail throughout the meal.


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AMUSE BOUCHE 4.2/5

We kicked off with two beautifully presented bites: a Crab Tartlet, where the sweetness of the crab is elevated with pink peppercorn, and a Butternut Squash sphere that bursts with sweet flavour sitting atop a savoury parmesan base for that satisfying crunch. These are small bites with big impressions.

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ROSSO DI MAZARA 5/5

A standout starter, the Rosso Di Mazara features Sicilian Red Prawn Carpaccio seasoned with hazelnut vinaigrette. The red prawns were supremely sweet and melt-in-the-mouth, perfectly complemented by seasonal white asparagus. It was a refreshing yet luxurious opening to the meal.

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L'OURSIN 4.8/5

This dish showcases Riviera's creative flair. Bafun uni crowns a bed of Black Bean Tea Pudding with saffron nage, delivering a dish full of surprises. The pudding has a unique texture and earthy flavour, unlike anything we've had before — in the best way possible. It is complex, layered, and sophisticated.

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LE CANARD DE CHALLANS 4.5/5

For my main, I chose the Le Canard de Challans. The Challans Duck Breast was cooked beautifully, seasoned just enough to let its natural flavours shine through. Accompanied by a rich bordelaise sauce, the dish felt refined and comforting.

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LA TRUITE 4.8/5

My dining partner opted for the La Truite, a filleted French Rainbow Trout topped with smoked caviar and a crisp piece of skin. Served with a smooth petit pois velouté and charred baby endive, it was a well-balanced dish with elegance and complexity.

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“MONS” SELECTION OF MATURED CHEESES 4/5

You can add a cheese course for $38. The Mons Cheese Platter includes a variety of soft and hard cheeses, ideal for cheese lovers looking to extend their Mediterranean journey. It's a great way to slow down the meal before dessert.

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CANNOLIS AU CHOCOLAT 4.8/5

I've never been a fan of Cannoli because of the hard shell, but Riviera's version won me over. Infused with star anise, the shell is perfectly crisp, and when paired with the Jivara orange chocolate mousse and Grand Marnier sauce, it becomes a divine dessert experience. A creative spin that's both nostalgic and exciting.

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As tradition goes, we ended the meal with a selection of petit fours – a sweet little finale that tied everything together.

Riviera isn't just a place to eat; it's a place to savour life. Riviera delivers on every front with breathtaking views, impeccable service, and a menu that showcases both Mediterranean tradition and modern refinement. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, Riviera makes the experience worth it.

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Enjoy 15% off any dinner set menu when you book via Riviera.sg and mention the promo code "DTXRIVIERA" in the comment section of the booking. This offer is valid until 31 May 2025. Don't miss this opportunity to indulge in one of Singapore's most scenic and delicious dining destinations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Riviera
One Fullerton
1 Fullerton Road
#02-06
Singapore 049213
Tel: +65 6690 7564
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun and Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT. Take Exit A or B. Walk to Clifford Centre and then Change Alley. Take escalator to level 2. Cross the road using the OUE Link. Turn left towards Fullerton Bay Hotel. Walk to towards the bay and destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]