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

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Market Bistro @ Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC) - NY Style Bistro That Offers Tasty, Unpretentious, Comfort Meals in the CBD

IMG_7624

IMG_7590

Market Bistro at Marina Bay Financial Centre (MBFC) is a cosy bistro in the heart of the bustling CBD. Run by Eleven Seventeen, the group behind Singapore's well-known steakhouses like Meadesmoore and Fat Belly, the restaurant has curated a menu that offers high-quality meats at great value.

IMG_7609
Salmon Croquettes 4.5/5

We tried the Salmon Croquettes ($14) and Fried Brussels Sprouts ($14). The Salmon Croquettes were a true delight, featuring chunky bits of salmon mixed with mashed potatoes and a generous amount of dill — a classic combination. The tangy Gribiche dip provided a creamy texture and a piquant lift in flavour.

IMG_7604
Fried Brussels Sprouts 4.5/5

The Fried Brussels Sprouts were moreish, with umami soy caramel honey dressing that added sweetness, complemented by rice puffs for a touch of nuttiness and crunch.

IMG_7625
Irish Duck Confit 4/5

We had the signature Irish Duck Confit ($28) and Grass-Fed Ribeye ($34) for mains. The duck confit had a delectable crust and was notably a meatier bite compared to a typical duck confit. The dish was accompanied by sweet potato mash and succotash and had a nice textural contrast. However, considering that the meat was on the fattier side, and the accompaniments were relatively sweet, the dish could have benefited from a more savoury or tart to balance the richness.

IMG_7613
Grass-Fed Ribeye 4.5/5

The Grass-Fed Ribeye was one of the better steaks I've had in a while. Cooked to the right doneness with good char, the fats were rendered perfectly, enhancing the flavour. The red wine sauce however, could have been more intense to better complement the steak.

IMG_7638
Baked Alaska 3.8/5

We enjoyed a pretty Baked Alaska ($12) served with passionfruit sauce for dessert. The meringue contained red berries, vanilla ice cream, and a genoise cake. The meringue was too sweet for my taste, but the tartness of the passionfruit sauce and red berries helped to balance it out.

IMG_7595

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Market Bistro
Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 3
12 Marina Boulevard
#01-03
Singapore 018982
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Marina Bay (CC, NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon–Fri: 8am – 9pm
(Closed on Sat and Sun)

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

2) Alight at Marina Bay MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to traffic junction of Marina Way and Central Boulevard. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, August 28, 2024

Club Rangoon @ Duxton Road - A Taste of Contemporary Burmese Cuisine in Singapore

ClubRangoonExterior-1

ClubRangoonExterior-3

After making its mark in Hong Kong, Club Rangoon by Burmese restaurateur, Nelson Htoo has found a new home in Singapore. Nelson's decision to relocate was driven by the lease ending in Hong Kong and his deep-rooted connection to Singapore, where he spent his teenage years. Additionally, Singapore's vibrant Southeast Asian community, including a significant Burmese diaspora, makes it an ideal place to showcase Burmese cuisine's rich and spiced flavours.

ClubRangoon2
Laphet Thoke 4/5

We started our lunch with the Laphet Thoke ($17), a refreshing fermented tea leaf salad. This dish is a staple in Burmese cuisine and consists of shredded cabbage, cherry tomatoes, and green chilli, all tossed in a tangy sauce. The real star, however, is the double-fried beans that add an irresistible crunch to each bite. The tea leaves themselves, which are traditionally fermented, add a unique flavour that elevates the dish. While most of us are more accustomed to drinking tea, in Burma, it's just as common to eat it, making this dish a fascinating introduction to the cuisine.

ClubRangoon8
Shan Htamin Jin 3.8/5

Next, we sampled the Shan Htamin Jin ($12.5/2pc), which translates to Shan-style rice. This light bite featured mildly turmeric-flavoured fermented rice balls crowned with a tomato chilli rice pillow. I was advised that it's best enjoyed in a single bite, allowing the slightly sticky yet firm rice to mingle with the savoury, tangy, and earthy notes. It's a textural delight that offers a harmonious blend of flavours, making it one of the standout items on the menu.

ClubRangoon11
Dirty Egg Bites 4.2/5

Another popular item on the menu is the Dirty Egg Bites ($12/2pc). This dish features hard-boiled eggs topped with a curry and coriander sauce, accompanied by caramelized onions and a split pea chip. It’s a dish that offers a glimpse into the rich and complex flavors of Burmese cuisine. The combination of the egg with the curry sauce and crunchy chip makes for a satisfying bite that leaves you wanting more.

ClubRangoon15
Fish & Chips 4.2/5

When you see Fish & Chips ($14) on the menu, you might expect the British classic. However, Club Rangoon's take on this dish is a delightful surprise. Instead of the usual battered fish, barramundi is pounded with a mixture of spices reminiscent of otah, a local fish cake. The dish is served with fish crackers, allowing you to scoop the spiced barramundi onto the crackers like nachos. It's a creative and flavorful twist on a familiar dish that showcases the chef's ingenuity.

ClubRangoon23
Mohinga 4/5

No exploration of Burmese cuisine would be complete without Mohinga. This staple noodle dish is a complex and comforting bowl of goodness, featuring rice noodles in a lemongrass-catfish soup, banana stems, egg, grilled catfish, split pea fritter, chilli powder, and lime. The broth is light yet flavorful, with silky soft noodles that make it a joy to eat. The banana stems add an interesting crunch, although the fibrous texture might not be to everyone's liking. Overall, Mohinga is a must-try for anyone new to Burmese cuisine, offering a well-balanced and satisfying experience.

ClubRangoon25
Duck Leg Confit Curry 4.5/5

The highlight of the meal for me was the Duck Leg Confit Curry ($32). The duck leg was cooked to perfection, fork-tender and rich in flavour. The curry itself was aromatic and deeply flavorful, enriched by the sweetness of onions and a medley of spices. This is the kind of dish that demands a bowl of steamed jasmine rice ($5) to soak up every last drop of the delicious curry. It's hearty, comforting, and absolutely delicious — a true showcase of the depth and complexity of Burmese cuisine.

Club Rangoon brings a slice of contemporary Burmese cuisine to Singapore, offering a diverse, familiar, and novel menu. Whether you're new to Burmese food or a seasoned fan, the dishes here are sure to leave a lasting impression. From the refreshing Laphet Thoke to the hearty Duck Leg Confit Curry, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Club Rangoon is a welcome addition to Singapore's vibrant food scene, and I can't wait to return for another round of culinary exploration.


Club Rangoon
76 Duxton Road
Singapore 089535
Tel: +65 8190 8827
Instagram
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 530pm - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Cross the road to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road and walk to Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road towards Duxton Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Friday, June 7, 2024

Entrepot @ The Robertson House - Introduces New Menu Infused With Nostalgia and Bold Flavours

EntrepotMay24-13

EntrepotMay24-24

Entrepôt at The Robertson House unveils an enticing new menu that will excite your taste buds with bold, robust flavours. Chef Nixon Low draws from his formative years, personal experiences, and conversations with guests and his team to introduce eight new dishes, each telling a culinary story that celebrates tradition and nostalgia. The restaurant space is also nicely decorated with art pieces for a heritage chic vibe.

EntrepotMay24-5
Vietnamese-Style Crispy Rice Paper 4.2/5

We had the Vietnamese-style Crispy Rice Paper ($24), a nod to the past when Vietnamese junk boats were common on the Singapore River. This dish is fun and interactive, as diners assemble their own portion of toppings. It's a delicious mix of vermicelli, prawns, fresh herbs and peanut sauce piled on top of crispy rice paper, almost like a deconstructed spring roll.

EntrepotMay24-1
Chicken Drunken 3/5

Secondly, a Chinese-inspired dish of Chicken Drunken ($22). The idea is certainly innovative, and the dish is beautiful- a platter of poached chicken roulades and goji berry marmalade, accompanied by a fragrant shot of Drunken Chicken Liquor to be drunk. However, I would have liked it with some dipping sauce as the chicken meat itself, although tender, could do with a little more flavour.

EntrepotMay24-6
Dr Robertson's Chai Cured Salmon 4/5

The third dish of Dr Robertson's Chai Cured Salmon ($24) is a refreshing salad dressed in Dragon Fruit plum. The fennel, radish slaw, candied pecans, and granola also contribute a nice crunch and texture. With very bright flavours, this was light and easy to eat.

EntrepotMay24-8
"Itek Sio"- Tamarind Braised Cherry Valley Duck 3.8/5

Moving on to the main dishes, we had the "Itek Sio" — Tamarind Braised Cherry Valley Duck ($54). I found this enjoyable. There was a duck leg confit and a sous vide duck breast, both of which were nicely cooked and soft. The baked banana shallots added aroma and a mild, subtly sweet flavour to each bite.

EntrepotMay24-12
Aged Vinegar and Malt Sugar Glazed Kurobuta Pork Chop 4.5/5

The Aged Vinegar and Malt Sugar Glazed Kurobuta Pork Chop ($48) is one of the Chef's signature dishes, and it is impressive! The Kurobuta pork loin is cooked and fried to get a crispy edge before glazed with vinegar and malt sugar. The result is a nicely tender pork chop with the right amount of fat and meat and a pleasing sweetness to the meat. Cocoa nibs complete the dish, and grilled white cabbage and pickled vegetables refresh the palate.

EntrepotMay24-14
Chef's Joo Chiat Charcoal Seasonal Whole Fish 4.5/5

I also very much liked Chef's Joo Chiat Charcoal Seasonal Whole Fish ($48). It's done in Thai style with a tangy and appetising Thai chilli sauce, accompanied by a raw papaya and wing bean salad and toasted glutinous rice. The exterior of the fish is nicely charred, while the flesh is fresh, juicy, and flaky.

EntrepotMay24-16
"Hong Zao" Rice Cakes with Eryngii Mushrooms 3/5

One of the most interesting dishes of the evening was the "Hong Zao" Rice Cakes with Eryngii Mushrooms ($28). This dish consists of Teochew rice cakes, crispy red rice and black fungus cooked in a Red Yeast rice residue. Prepared by Chef Nixon's father during his mother's confinement period to nourish her after the birth of each of his younger siblings, this dish symbolises joyous moments and warm family memories in his life. It is a hearty dish (a little too savoury on its own) and is best paired with rice.

EntrepotMay24-19
Fragrant Steamed Coconut Rice with Serundeng 4.8/5

As such, I recommend pre-ordering this special item of Fragrant Steamed Coconut Rice with Serundeng (not on the main menu, limited availability). It seems like a simple rice dish, but it's an absolute delight to eat with the communal main dishes listed above, especially with all that tasty gravy! The rice is light and fluffy and has the delicate fragrance of spicy toasted coconut.

EntrepotMay24-20
Peanut Butter and Chocolate 4/5

Dessert is a real treat for all Peanut Butter and Chocolate ($17) lovers. It is assembled with peanut candy, chocolate genoise sponge cake, 72% dark chocolate mousse, and cashew nut praline. The peanut butter's savoury notes harmonise with the chocolate's sweet and bitter nuances for an indulgent final plate.

EntrepotMay24-23

To complement your meal, there's a good list of cocktails and spirits. They even have their own exclusive Dr Robertson's Gin, crafted in collaboration with Tanglin Gin in Singapore.

EntrepotMay24-26

This menu is now available at Entrepôt from Mon - Fri, 6pm - 10:30pm and Weekends (Last Order: 10:00pm).

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


Entrepôt
The Robertson House
1 Unity Street
Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 8301689
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Clemenceau Ave. Turn left onto Clemenceau Ave, walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 1, 2024

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kemposki - Relocated to a More Centralised Place While Maintaining the Pricing Affordable

TheMassesCapitol45

The Masses by Chef Dylan Ong has relocated from Beach Road to the prestigious Arcade at the Capitol Kempinski Hotel. This new chapter introduces a refreshed menu that marries contemporary French cuisine with bold Asian elements, delivering a unique Franco-Asian dining experience. The menu offers a cuisine with a French core harmoniously layered with Asian elements.

TheMassesCapitol2
Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee 4.2/5

We began our culinary journey with the Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee ($12.90/4pc). Unlike the traditional version stuffed with cooked jicama, Chef Dylan elevates this snack by infusing the shell with squid ink and topping it with fresh crab meat. The sweetness of the crab pairs beautifully with the savoury crunch of the shell, making for a delightful start.

TheMassesCapitol9
Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet 4/5

Next, we tried the Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet ($9.90/2pc). These fluffy beignets are filled with yuzu creme and topped with Avruga caviar, which has been smoked in-house with pu er tea. The tea's subtle aroma and the caviar burst create an elegant and unique flavour profile.

TheMassesCapitol14
Steak Tartare 4/5

The Steak Tartare ($26.90) here is a symphony of flavours and textures. Served with sour cream, wasabi, mustard, charred onion, and pickled chye sim and topped with fried garlic chips, shallot chips, and caviar, it offers a rich and complex taste. Spreading the tartare on the accompanying shiso Kueh Loyang adds a crispy contrast that enhances each bite.

TheMassesCapitol16
Salad Nicoise 3.5/5

A refreshing and healthy option is the Salad Nicoise ($23.90). This vibrant dish features gem lettuce, seasonal vegetables, tomatoes, olives, and aburi swordfish, all dressed in a tuna emulsion and topped with a soft-boiled egg. It perfectly balances flavours and textures, making it a standout salad.

TheMassesCapitol21

TheMassesCapitol25
Moules Marinieres 4/5

The Moules Marinieres ($16.90) is an innovative twist on the classic chawanmushi. Beneath the uni sabayon sprinkled with Espelette pepper lies a soft and creamy steamed egg custard with blue mussels. It's a delightful mix of textures and flavours paired with a crispy rice paper cracker.

TheMassesCapitol26
Wagyu Beef Tongue 4/5

The Wagyu Beef Tongue served atop a crispy scallion pancake, is layered with red wine onion marmalade, pickled mustard seeds, pickled onions, shiso leaf, Dijon mustard, and lemon vinaigrette. The sweetness of the marmalade and the sharpness of the pickled elements create a harmonious balance, making this dish a highlight.

TheMassesCapitol38
Stuffed Zucchini Flower 3/5

The Stuffed Zucchini Flower ($29.90), air-flown from Holland, is filled with mozzarella cheese and drizzled with lavender honey. Though the flower-to-cheese ratio felt a bit off, the lemon and caper aioli lifted the dish, adding a zesty finish.

TheMassesCapitol31
Lemon Sole Meuniere 4/5

The Lemon Sole Meuniere ($39.90) makes a grand entry with a whole sole fish served in an "Asian Grenobloise" sauce topped with coldwater shrimp and sliced almonds. The unique twist of salted vegetables blended into the sauce offers a nod to the traditional Teochew steamed fish.

TheMassesCapitol35
Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken 4.5/5

A favourite is the Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken ($21.90/half). The tender chicken served with parsnip puree, chilli jam, and charred kailan in a soy sauce chicken jus, stands out for its flavorful skin and well-balanced accompaniments.

TheMassesCapitol47
Duck Confit 4.8/5

The Duck Confit ($21.90), a signature dish from Chef Dylan's early career, is served atop rice noodles with local mushrooms and mirabelle plum vinaigrette, finished with house-cured egg yolk. This dish reinterprets the local moonlight Hor Fun, adding a nostalgic yet innovative touch.

TheMassesCapitol50
Steak Au Poivre 5/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($29.90) features 2GR Australian Wagyu seared and served in a browned butter sauce accented by lemon and capers. The tender shoulder cut is packed with robust flavour, and the black pepper sauce is truly the soul of this dish.

TheMassesCapitol57
Corn & Cereal 4.5/5

For dessert, we had the Corn & Cereal ($13.90), a warm toffee and corn pudding served in whiskey caramel sauce, topped with cereal and housemade cereal ice cream. It's not overly sweet and offers a delightful play of textures and flavours.

TheMassesCapitol54
Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT 4.2/5

The Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT ($15.90) is a savory-sweet chocolate-based dessert. Housemade black truffle ice cream is paired with Valrhona Tulakalum chocolate ganache and piped chocolate mousse and finished with shaved black truffle, sea salt, and lemon verbena oil. This dessert is a must-try for chocolate lovers.

The Masses at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience with its Franco-Asian cuisine. Chef Dylan Ong's innovative take on classic dishes and his use of premium ingredients make this a must-visit destination. The varied menu ensures there is something for everyone, and I'm excited to see how the menu evolves over time.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Ducking Good (好吃鸭) @ Geylang Road - One Stop Duck Specialist Restaurant For Delicious Duck Dishes Cooked In All Forms

DuckingGood9

Nestled in the bustling streets of Geylang, Ducking Good (好吃鸭) emerges as a new one-stop haven for duck enthusiasts. With an impressive menu offering no less than ten inventive ways to enjoy duck, this duck specialist restaurant promises a ducking good time through the rich and diverse world of duck cuisine. From roasted to braised, salted to spiced, every dish is thoughtfully paired with complementary sides to elevate the dining experience.

DuckingGoodInterior-2

Don't miss out on their opening promotion, which is a steal. Enjoy 50% OFF SIGNATURE DUCK DISHES on rotation weekly for dine-in only. Limited to one redemption per table per bill.

OPENING PROMOTION
Enjoy 50% OFF SIGNATURE DUCK DISHES on rotation weekly for dine-in only. Limited to one redemption per table per bill.

4 May - 10 May
- Signature Salted Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)

11 May - 17 May
- Triple Ducking Platter (U.P. $49++) comprising Herbal Roast Duck, Signature Braised Duck and Signature Salted 

18 May - 24 May
- Herbal Roast Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)

25 May - 31 May
- Signature Braised Duck (Whole - U.P. $69++)


DuckingGood1
Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup 4/5

Our dinner began with the Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup ($13.90), a nourishing double-boiled broth enriched with a medley of herbs. The soup boasts a rich, earthy flavour profile with a touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness, creating a complex and layered taste. This soothing yet invigorating soup delights the palate and offers health benefits such as strengthening the body and boosting the immune system.

DuckingGood8
Double Ducking Platter (Herbal Roast & Braised) 3/5

Next, we indulged in the Double Ducking Platter ($39), featuring both Herbal Roasted Duck and Braised Duck. While both preparations were commendable, the herbal roasted duck stood out with its distinct and fragrant flavour. However, it is worth noting that the textures of both types of duck were slightly on the dry side.

DuckingGood15
Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg 4.2/5

Our undisputed evening favourite was the Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg ($13.90). This modern take on duck confit, dusted with a fragrant, spicy cumin mix, delivered a delightful crunch on the exterior while maintaining moist, tender meat. It's a must-try dish that exemplifies Ducking Good's innovative approach.

DuckingGood22
Braised Duck Claypot Porridge 3.5/5

The Braised Duck Claypot Porridge ($9.90) is a perfect choice for those seeking comfort food. The smooth and creamy porridge, enriched with duck gravy, provides a hearty meal on its own. However, we found the portion of duck meat to be somewhat scant.

DuckingGood6
Chilled Cucumber 4/5

The Chilled Cucumber ($3.90) stood out as a refreshing accompaniment among the side dishes. Crunchy cucumber slices tossed in fragrant chilli oil offered a pleasant contrast to the more decadent duck dishes.

DuckingGood14
Thai Sweet Chilli Tofu 3/5

Unfortunately, the Thai Sweet Chilli Tofu ($9.90) did not leave a lasting impression. While it was competently prepared, it lacked the distinctive flair that characterised the other dishes we sampled.

DuckingGoodInterior-1

In summary, Ducking Good in Geylang successfully combines various duck preparations that showcase traditional and modern culinary techniques. With standout dishes like the Shi Quan Tonic Duck Soup and Crispy Spiced Confit Duck Leg, this new duck specialist is poised to become a favourite among duck aficionados. Whether you're looking for a nourishing bowl of soup or an inventive take on duck confit, Ducking Good offers a delightful dining experience worth exploring.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ducking Good (好吃鸭)
487 Geylang Road
Singapore 389446
Tel: +65 8814 8366
Facebook
Instagram
Nearest MRT: Aljunied (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 10am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Aljunied MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to the traffic light at Sims Avenue. Cross the road and walk down Geylang Lorong 25A. Turn left onto Geyland Road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]