Les Ducs @ Ann Siang Hill - Returns with Soulful Bouillon Lunch and Fun French Dining

Tucked along the charming enclave of Ann Siang Hill, Les Ducs returns with a refreshed identity under French chef-owner Louis Pacquelin. Rather than chasing trends, the reintroduction feels grounded and sincere. It is a thoughtful expression of the chef’s culinary journey, shaped by classical French training and years spent working across Asia.

Having honed his craft under the likes of Alain Ducasse, with stints at Aux Lyonnais and BBR by Alain Ducasse at Raffles Hotel Singapore, Chef Pacquelin brings with him a strong foundation in traditional French techniques. At Les Ducs, this manifests in a menu that balances technical finesse with a relaxed, approachable spirit, what he aptly calls “Fun French Dining.”

Sourdough 4/5

Country Terrine | Duck Rilletes 3.5/5

Available Monday to Saturday, the Bouillon lunch menu draws inspiration from traditional French home cooking and brasserie classics. Designed to be fuss-free and wallet-friendly, it offers a selection of hearty dishes suited for both quick business lunches and leisurely afternoons.

We began our meal with Country Terrine | Duck Rillettes ($8), paired with toasted Sourdough ($3). The sourdough arrived crisp on the outside with a light, airy crumb, making it an ideal canvas for the rich, fatty duck rillettes. The spread was indulgent yet balanced, with a depth of flavour that spoke of careful preparation.

Snails, Garlic and Parsley Butter 3/5

The Snails with Garlic and Parsley Butter ($12) delivered on flavour, a fragrant medley of garlic and herbaceous parsley folded into a buttery base. However, the decision to serve the escargots without their shells left the dish dry. While the aromatic butter carried the dish, it missed the lusciousness typically associated with this French classic.

Steam Prawns, Cocktail Sauce 4/5

On the other hand, the Prawn Cocktail ($10) was a refreshing contrast. Featuring four plump, sweet prawns, lightly poached to retain their natural texture, the dish was elevated by a tangy, creamy cocktail sauce. It was simple yet satisfying, offering a bright and zesty palate cleanser.

Roasted Chicken Leg, Mushroom Sauce, French Fries 4.2/5

The Roasted Chicken Leg with Mushroom Sauce and French Fries ($15) stood out immediately for its value. A generously sized chicken leg arrived with beautifully crisped skin and tender, juicy meat. The accompanying mushroom cream sauce was rich and earthy, coating each bite with comforting depth. Paired with a heap of crispy, thin-cut fries perfect for soaking up the sauce, this dish punches well above its price point.

Confit Duck Leg, Saute Potatoes 4.2/5

Equally satisfying was the Confit Duck Leg with Sautéed Potatoes ($22). Prepared in the traditional method, the duck leg was slow-cooked until fork-tender, then pan-fried to finish, achieving a delicate, crisp skin. The sautéed potatoes, lightly tossed with garlic and herbs, provided a rustic and hearty accompaniment. This was classic French comfort food at its best. It is rich, savoury, and deeply satisfying without unnecessary embellishments.

Chocolat Liegeois 4/5

Desserts leaned towards simplicity but remained enjoyable. The Chocolat Liégeois ($9) comes with vanilla ice cream, rich chocolate sauce, and almonds. It is straightforward yet indulgent, delivering familiar flavours that please.

Creme Mont Blanc 4/5

More interesting was the Crème Mont Blanc ($8), a playful take on the traditional French dessert. Featuring a smooth chestnut purée with a naturally nutty sweetness, it was topped with meringue to mimic the snow-capped Mont Blanc. While lighter than its classic counterpart, it retained the essence of the original with a modern, approachable twist.

Les Ducs’ revival is less about reinvention and more about refinement. Chef Louis Pacquelin presents a menu that feels personal and grounded, combining the rigour of French culinary tradition with subtle influences from his time in Asia. The Bouillon lunch, in particular, stands out for its honest cooking and exceptional value, making it a compelling option in the Ann Siang Hill dining scene. For those seeking unpretentious French fare with a touch of soul, Les Ducs delivers a dining experience that is both comforting and quietly confident.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Ducs
8 Ann Siang Hill
Singapore 069788
Tel: +65 9853 4710
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 1130pm

Direction:

1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk down South Bridge Road towards Ann Siang Road. Turn right onto Ann Siang Road. Walk down Ann Siang Road. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 4 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street to South Bridge Road. Cross the road and turn right. Walk down South Bridge Road. Turn left onto Ann Siang Hill and walk down Ann Siang Hill. Walk to the destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Bouillon Gavroche @ Mandarin Gallery - Asia’s First Traditional Parisian Bouillon

Bringing a slice of 19th-century Paris to the heart of Orchard Road, Bouillon Gavroche at Mandarin Gallery introduces Singapore to the timeless charm of the traditional French bouillon. As Asia’s first of its kind, the concept revives a historic dining culture that predates the brasserie and bistro, where hearty, honest French fare is served all day in a lively, convivial setting.

Unlike its more refined sibling, Brasserie Gavroche, this new concept embraces accessibility — both in pricing and atmosphere — offering a menu of comforting French classics designed for everyday dining. With starters from $6, mains from $16, and desserts from $6, it is a refreshing addition to the local dining scene, where quality French cuisine is often associated with heftier price tags.

Camembert Pané 4/5

The Camembert Pané ($14) is a quintessential French comfort starter. Encased in a golden, crisp breadcrumb crust, the thick wheel of Camembert reveals a luscious molten centre upon cutting. The richness of the cheese is thoughtfully balanced by a side of fresh greens, whose light acidity cuts through the indulgence. It is simple yet deeply satisfying.

Oeufs Mimosa 4/5

A staple across Parisian bouillons, the Oeufs Mimosa ($6) celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Hard-boiled eggs are halved and filled with a creamy yolk mixture bound with mayonnaise and lightly seasoned with herbs. Unpretentious and nostalgic, the dish reflects the restaurant’s ethos, humble ingredients, executed with care.

Rillettes de Saumon 4.2/5

The Rillettes de Saumon ($12) offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavours. Combining both poached and smoked salmon, the spread achieves a balance between delicate freshness and savoury depth. Lightly bound with crème fraîche and lifted with a hint of lemon zest, it remains refreshing on the palate. Paired with toasted bread, it makes for an easy yet refined starter.

Salade d’Endives 3.5/5

The Salade d’Endives ($12) is a vibrant composition of contrasting flavours and textures. Crisp endive leaves bring a gentle bitterness, complemented by the creamy saltiness of Roquefort, the crunch of toasted walnuts, and the sweetness of fresh apple slices. While refreshing, its assertive flavour profile may not appeal to all, but it serves well as a palate cleanser amid richer dishes.

Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards 4/5

The Ravioles de Royan aux Épinards ($16) showcases a regional French speciality from the Dauphiné. These delicate, bite-sized pasta parcels feature thin, silky skins that almost dissolve in the mouth, encasing a creamy cheese filling. Served atop a bed of sautéed spinach, the dish achieves a lovely balance between richness and earthy freshness.

Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes 4.2/5

A highlight on the menu, the Beef Bourguignon, Coquillettes ($26) delivers deep, comforting flavours. The beef is braised until fork-tender in a rich red wine reduction, imbued with the sweetness of slow-cooked vegetables. Instead of the usual potatoes, it is paired with coquillettes, small elbow pasta that soaks up the robust sauce beautifully. Nostalgic and hearty, it captures the soul of traditional French home cooking.

Parmentier de Canard 4/5

The Parmentier de Canard ($22) is a rustic, comforting dish akin to a French-style shepherd’s pie. Beneath a blanket of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes lies shredded duck confit, rich and deeply flavourful. Baked to a light golden finish, it is a hearty, no-frills dish that embodies the essence of French “cuisine bourgeoise” — honest, filling, and immensely satisfying.

Profiterole 4.5/5

The Profiterole ($10) is a standout dessert. The airy choux pastry, lightly crisp on the outside, encases a swirl of vanilla soft serve. What elevates the dish is the warm, luscious chocolate sauce poured generously over the top, creating a delightful contrast of hot and cold while slowly melting the ice cream into a creamy pool.

Tarte Fine aux Pommes 4.2/5

The Tarte Fine aux Pommes ($8) is a study in restraint and precision. A thin sheet of puff pastry forms the base, baked until crisp and buttery, topped with delicately sliced apples arranged in a neat pattern. Lightly caramelised at the edges, the apples retain their natural tartness, allowing the fruit to shine without excessive sweetness.

Mousse au Chocolat 4.2/5

Ending on a classic note, the Mousse au Chocolat ($8) delivers a rich yet airy indulgence. Smooth and velvety with a slight density, it strikes a fine balance between lightness and depth, offering a satisfying chocolate finish without being overly heavy.

Bouillon Gavroche successfully captures the spirit of Parisian bouillon dining — approachable, comforting, and steeped in tradition. The menu focuses on familiar French classics executed with finesse, while the pricing makes it accessible for casual, repeat visits. In a dining landscape where French cuisine often leans towards the formal and extravagant, Bouillon Gavroche stands out with its relaxed charm and honest cooking. In this place, one can simply drop in, enjoy a hearty meal, and return time and again.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bouillon Gavroche
Mandarin Gallery
333A Orchard Road
#01-16/17
Singapore 238897
Tel: +65 8522 0998
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

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

Back at Pulsii French Bistro, helmed by Chef Daisuke Yoshikawa, we were introduced to its refreshed menu that continues to reflect refined French techniques with comforting, well-balanced flavours.

Duck Confit Croquettes 4/5

We began with the Duck Confit Croquettes ($4/pc), deep-fried to a beautiful golden brown. Breaking into the crisp exterior reveals a savoury, flavour-packed centre that delivers an immediate burst of richness. The addition of purple cabbage is a thoughtful touch, providing a refreshing contrast that nicely balances the robust duck flavours.

Fromage de Tete Spring Rolls 4/5

Another delightful starter is the Fromage de Tete Spring Rolls ($14). Encased in a crisp skin, the filling consists of slow-braised pork ragout made from four different cuts, resulting in layers of texture and depth. It is a satisfying bite that showcases both richness and finesse, making it an enjoyable snack to share.

Truffle Souffle Omelette with Beef Stew 4.2/5

The Truffle Souffle Omelette with Beef Stew ($16) arrives looking like a soft, fluffy egg cloud. Cutting through the delicate omelette reveals a hearty beef stew beneath, featuring fork-tender beef that has absorbed the deep, savoury flavours of the sauce. The truffle aroma adds an elegant touch, elevating this comforting dish.

Grilled Japanese Cod 4/5

For mains, we had the Grilled Japanese Cod ($55). The fish is wonderfully fatty and buttery, cooked just right to retain its moist texture. It is complemented by a fragrant clam saffron sauce, with fresh tomato and fennel adding brightness and balance to the dish.

Overall, Pulsii French Bistro’s new menu showcases Chef Daisuke Yoshikawa’s thoughtful approach to French bistro fare, where comforting flavours meet refined execution. From well-crafted starters to satisfying mains, the dishes strike a balance between indulgence and finesse, making Pulsii a pleasant choice for both casual dining and special occasions. With its polished yet approachable offerings, Pulsii remains a spot worth revisiting for diners seeking modern French cuisine with depth and character.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pulsii French Bistro
55 Tras Street
Singapore 078994
Tel: +65 9689 8407
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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]

French Fold @ Great World - An All-day Dining Contemporary Crêperie Serving Wholesome Galettes And Sweet Crêpes

French Fold's newest outlet at Great World is a delightful spot to enjoy galettes and crêpes any time of the day, from breakfast through to dinner. Each galette is crafted using 100% organic buckwheat flour from Brittany.

Wild Trout Galette 4/5

On my visit, the seasonal option was Wild Trout Galette with leek fondue and lime. Creamy leek has always been one of my favourites, so I couldn't resist this classic pairing. The galette came with its characteristic lacy holes and crispy edges, holding the filling well, unlike some I've tried that turn soggy within minutes. Despite being gluten-free, it had a pleasantly chewy texture, particularly at the corners and folding edges. The leek fondue was tender and just the right level of creaminess, though the sliced trout didn't quite deliver the moist, flaky texture I'd expected.

Duck Confit Galette 5/5

For a heartier option, we tried No. 15 Duck Confit, served with baby potatoes, caramelised onion, cream, Meule cheese, and Parmesan. The shredded duck confit was fatty and tender, each bite indulgent with a mix of cream and cheeses and mouth-filling with soft baby potatoes. A finishing sprinkle of thyme punctuated the richness with a subtle citrusy and herbaceous note, making this dish even more satisfying.

Crepe with Caramelised Apples 3.5/5

For desserts, Crepe No. 29 featured caramelised apple with a drizzle of salted caramel. The crepe itself was buttery and delicious. The apples nestled beneath the crepe were lightly softened rather than truly caramelised, and the salted caramel lacked depth, making the overall flavour lean more towards simple sweetness than a balanced sweet-salty profile.

Crepe with Dark Chocolate Sorbet 3/5

Crepe No. 31 paired a dark chocolate sorbet from Birds of Paradise with white chocolate sauce and chocolate crumble. While visually appealing, I preferred a richer, more intense dark chocolate ice cream to better complement the crepe.

Overall, French Fold at Great World City offers a charming space for galettes and crêpes, with thoughtful attention to ingredient quality and presentation.

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


French Fold
Great World City
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-153
Singapore 237994
Tel: +65 6047 0248
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at the Great World MRT station. Take Exit 6. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Edge @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Celebrates The Festive Season with Well-Loved Local and International Spread Alongside Festive Seasonal Creations

Celebrate the festive season at Edge at Pan Pacific Singapore with one of its most abundant spreads of the year. The line-up features festive seasonal creations alongside the restaurant's well-loved local and international offerings.

Traditional Roasted Whole Turkey, Maple-glazed Gammon Ham

At the Festive Carving Station, highlights include the Traditional Roasted Whole Turkey, classically paired with cranberry sauce, and a succulent, sweet-savoury Maple-glazed Gammon Ham served with zesty spiced pineapple marmalade.

Charcoal-grilled Grass-fed Lamb Leg

The Charcoal-grilled Grass-fed Lamb Leg rubbed with Ras El Hanout spice stood out for its heady, aromatic flavours. Alongside it was a Slow-roasted Tomahawk, finished with a final torching of the exterior to add an extra layer of char and smokiness.

We also tried an interesting take on Duck Confit, served with Savoy cabbage, that offered a comforting, well-balanced combination.

Roasted Duck, Maltose Honey-glazed Char Siew

For Asian roasts, both the Roasted Duck and Maltose Honey-glazed Char Siew impressed with their succulency and depth of flavour.

"Jiang Zheng" Red Snapper

"Bi Feng Tang" Roasted Chicken

Under Asian Delights, the "Jiang Zheng" Red Snapper was moist and tender, robustly flavoured with fermented bean paste chilli and crispy pork lard. A clear crowd-pleaser was the "Bi Feng Tang" Roasted Chicken, made moreish with crispy garlic and dried chilli.

Wok-fried Singapore Hokkien Noodles

My personal favourite was the Wok-fried Singapore Hokkien Noodles wrapped in Opah Leaf, fragrant and satisfying.

Sambal Berlado Turkey

The Taste of Malaysia section included a festive twist with Sambal Berlado Turkey, alongside comforting staples such as satays.

Lamb Biryani

Over at the Indian Cuisine station, popular dishes like Butter Chicken and Lamb Biryani were well represented.

Cheese and Charcuterie Station

The Cheese and Charcuterie Station offered a wholesome assortment of cheeses, condiments, and handcrafted cold cuts, including Pan Pacific home-cured beef salami, Virginia ham, pastrami, mortadella, paprika lyoner, and Black Forest ham.

Chocolate Fountain

The highlight of the festive spread was undoubtedly the Dessert Stations, featuring a chocolate fountain, ice cream, and log cakes.

Homemade Stollen

Upside-Down Pineapple Cake

The festive sweet creations were impressive, with standouts including Homemade Stollen, Minced Fruit Pies, and Raspberry Choux Puffs. The buttery Upside-Down Pineapple Cake was particularly memorable and a fitting end to the meal.

For reservations, please call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com.

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


Edge
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Under Der Linden @ Portsdown Road - Floral Escape With European Vibes

Tucked away along Portsdown Road at One-North, Under Der Linden offers diners a floral-themed dining escape, blending European vibes with whimsical charm. The restaurant draws inspiration from the medieval poem "Under der Linden", infusing its interiors with pastel blooms, whitewashed walls, and arched details. The result is a serene, picture-perfect setting, and one of the rare pet-friendly restaurants in Singapore where even furry companions are welcome indoors.

Ice Latte 4.2/5

Kickstart the meal at Under Der Linden with a refreshing Ice Latte, smooth and lightly aromatic, setting the tone for a relaxing dining experience.

Burrata Garden Delight 4/5

For our lunch, we started with the Burrata Garden Delight ($22). A whole vine tomato sits on top of a bed of mizuna salad. Slice open the tomato, and it reveals a creamy burrata hidden within. The dish is light, fresh, and visually playful, marrying creamy richness with the peppery crunch of mizuna greens.

Crispy Calamari Fiesta 4.2/5

The Crispy Calamari Fiesta ($16) is super addictive, with its exterior perfectly crisp while the inside remains firm and tender. A comforting sharing dish that is simple yet executed with finesse.

Duck Confit 4/5

The Duck Confit ($32) is very well executed. The duck was tender and fell off the bone with ease. It is paired with compressed nashi pear, beetroot purée, and natural jus. The sweetness from the pear and beetroot balances the richness of the duck, creating a harmonious bite.

Wagyu Beef Burger 4.2/5

The Wagyu Beef Burger ($29) features a juicy, medium-rare 200g wagyu patty sandwiched between two soft and fluffy buns. Layered with onion compote, bacon jam, miso aioli, and cheddar cheese, the burger is flavour-packed and indulgent, easily one of the highlights of the menu.

Under Der Linden stands out as more than just a floral café. With its elegant interiors, pet-friendly policy, and well-executed menu, it makes for a charming spot for dates, gatherings, or simply a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle. The food is not only beautifully presented but also thoughtfully crafted, making it a dining destination that marries aesthetics with flavour.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Under Der Linden
5B Portsdown Road
#01-02
Singapore 139311
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Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Fri: 10am - 330pm, 530pm - 9pm
Sat-Sun: 10am - 9pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at One-North MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop opposite One-North MRT station (Stop ID 18151). Take bus number 191. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]