Ms Durian @ Jalan Besar - New Standalone Bakery And Cafe Specialising In All Things Durian

If you are a durian fan, Ms Durian is a bakery and cafe you will definitely want to look out for. The team started with a small shop at Potong Pasir in 2019 before expanding to this new space at Jalan Besar in February. Their new standalone space has indoor and outdoor seating and offers diners freshly made items of all things durian.

Apart from their signature sweets, Ms Durian has also launched a new variety of savoury dishes with mains such as Pan-seared Salmon ($29) and Smoked Duck Eggs Benny ($22), as well as sharing dishes like Fried Cheese ($18) and Grilled White Corn ($12).

Mao Shan Wang Durian High Tea Set

One of Ms Durian's signatures is their Mao Shan Wang Durian High Tea Set ($45/pax). Two high tea sessions are daily, at 1pm and 3pm. Each set has four desserts, three savoury items, and a tea pairing. Do note that it is mandatory for each person at the same table to order a set each. We sampled a few items from the set, starting from the top with the ones with the least durian intensity before the stronger ones after. First was the Fried Durian. This bite had a rich durian filling with coconut sauce to pair with it. Next was the Durian Craquelin, a mini version of one of their best-selling creations. We loved the crisp and light outer layer, paired with a sweet durian centre.

We then moved on to the Durian Macaron, which had a soft and chewy shell, before finishing with the Durian Cheese Mousse that came topped with brown butter crumble. I would have liked a stronger cheese mousse here for contrast; otherwise, it was a pleasant dessert.

Durian Ice Blended 4/5

The Durian Ice Blended ($10.50) is a new introduction to their beverage list. You can have it two ways - the first is as it is served, while the second is being paired with grounded white sesame. I thought it could be blended more smoothly, and the addition of white sesame was negligible, but we enjoyed how it was rich yet not overwhelmingly sweet. It works well in satisfying the durian craving and doesn't leave you feeling heaty after finishing the whole glass.

Durian Coffee 4.2/5

Each bottle of Durian Coffee ($12.50) is made to order, done with a combination of creamy latte and durian. The espresso notes hit strongly initially, while the durian notes come in at the end. The team worked on attaining a well-balanced ratio here.

Creme Brulee with Mao Shan Wang Durian Ice Cream 3/5

Ms Durian offers a couple of plated desserts, including the Creme Brulee with Mao Shan Wang Durian Ice Cream ($18.50). While we enjoyed the rich, creamy ice cream and crunchy macadamia nut brittle, we found the vanilla essence too strong in the custard and the torched sugar layer too thick. The team was very open to feedback, so we look forward to an improved version!

Mao Shan Wang Durian Tiramisu 4/5

Made with freshly pulled espresso and an additional touch of rum, Ms Durian's Mao Shan Wang Durian Tiramisu ($18.50) is intentionally kept more bitter. We liked the intensity of the coffee and its contrasting pairing with the thick and sweet durian mousse. The ladyfingers were of a harder texture, which would be better if they were soaked further for a softer texture.

Whisky Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake 4.5/5

The Whisky Mao Shan Wang Durian Cake ($14.50) features a triple-layered Mao Shan Wang durian between whisky-infused sponge cake, topped with meringue. The whisky leaves a subtle whiff, while the crisp meringue gives a complementary touch of sweetness. The durian was rich but not too sweet, which we greatly enjoyed.

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.


Ms Durian
11 Kelantan Road
Singapore 208604
Tel: +65 69620057
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Nearest MRT: Jalan Besar MRT (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed-Thu: 9am - 6pm
Fri-Sun: 9am - 10pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Jalan Besar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk down Jalan Besar Road towards Kelantan Road. Turn right onto Kelantan Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Goodwood Park Hotel Christmas 2022 - Celebrate The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year With Enchanting Line-up Of Festive Items

Are you planning for your Christmas celebration? Goodwood Park Hotel this year has put together an enchanting line-up of new festive takeaways, dining specials and staycations from 15 November 2022 to 2 January 2023.

Chinese Style Braised Whole Turkey with Braised Eggs, Peanuts and Homemade Chilli Sauce

Goodwood Park Hotel has been known for its Asian-inspired Turkey, and this year the kitchen team surprised us with the Chinese Style Braised Whole Turkey with Braised Eggs, Peanuts and Homemade Chilli Sauce ($388 nett). It is served with a choice of yam rice with preserved sausages, mushrooms and dried shrimp or thick rice porridge and braised gravy. Braised turkey may sound weird, but it was deliciously good.

Slow-roasted Iberico Pork Belly

Mini Turkey Pot Pie and Curry Turkey Pot Pie

Other delicious choices for your Christmas feast include the Slow-roasted Iberico Pork Belly ($418) with Crackling, Pickled Cabbage, Apple Sauce and Pork Jus, accompanied by Potato Gratin. The Mini Turkey Pot Pie ($56 for 6pc) and Mini Curry Turkey Pot Pie ($40 for 6pc) are a delightful addition to the festive spread.

DIY Turkey Popiah Roll

Wok-fried Carrot Cake in Homemade Sambal Chilli

Other Asian-inspired interpretations of the quintessential Christmas dish - Turkey, include the DIY Turkey Popiah Roll with Homemade Sambal Chilli ($78) and Wok-fried Carrot Cake in Homemade Sambal Chilli with Turkey Meat, Capsicum, & Bean Sprouts ($48).

Three-tiered Christmas Tree Set

The dazzling afternoon tea Three-tiered Christmas Tree Set and Two-tiered Christmas Carousel Set also make a comeback this year with delicately sweet and savoury bites ideal for a cosy get-together.

Festive Tropicana Log Cake

Beary Merry Yule Log

Jolly Holiday Travel Cake

Pink Party Christmas Tart

Besides the savoury dishes, there are also new festive sweet creations, starring the all-new Festive Tropicana Log Cake ($98), Beary Merry Yule Log Cake ($98), Jolly Holiday Travel Cake ($98), Pink Party Christmas Tart ($68). In the spirit of giving, the hotel will donate 10% of the sales of Christmas log cakes to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund.

Traditional Fruit Cake

Goodwood Mao Shan Wang Durian Christmas Log Cake

Not forgetting the time-honoured Traditional Fruit Cake ($40/$75) and the signature Goodwood Mao Shan Wang Durian Christmas Log Cake ($138).

Christmas Durian Combo

Goodwood Park Hotel is well-known for its annual Durian Fiesta, which features delightful creations of durian pastries. For this Christmas. Goodwood Park hotel has put together a Christmas Durian Combo ($68 for 6pc) consisting of D24 Coffee Glaze Cake, D24 Cookies 'N' Cream Cake, D24 Crunchy Chocolate-Hazelnut Tartlet, D24 Kueh Dadar and D24 Puffs.

Takeaway festive offerings will be available from The Deli from 15 November to 26 December 2022. Guests may place their orders at the Festive Online Shop goodwoodparkfestive.oddle.me for delivery or self-collection. Alternatively, guests may visit The Deli from 10am – 7pm; contact the Christmas Call Centre at (65) 6730 1867/68 from 10am – 6pm; or email festive@goodwoodparkhotel.com to place their takeaway orders for self-collection only. An advance order of five days is required for takeaways; the last pre-order date is 19 December 2022.


Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Launches The Brand New Panache Of Singapore Afternoon Tea

Located on the first floor of Pan Pacific Singapore, the Atrium Lounge is known for its iconic seating pods floating over a reflective pool. It recently launched the brand-new Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea, available daily from 12pm to 6pm. One can look forward to an enhanced dining experience with refreshed presentation and added touches such as welcome cocktail and amuse bouche, as well as enchanting melodies played live on a magnificent grand piano.

The afternoon tea comprises an ode to the classic indulgence with a touch of Singaporean flavours. Highlights include the Durian Choux, Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Pandan Cheesecake, and Classic Scones paired with Chef Dannevien’s handmade Pineapple and Peppercorn jam.

The sweets selection features local favourites such as the Durian Choux, and Pandan Cheesecake on the first tier, as well as the Lychee Chestnut Gâteaux, Dulcey Chocolate Passion Tart, and White Chocolate Banana Gâteaux.

My favourite is the Durian Choux, filled with creamy and indulgent Mao Shan Wang durian and Gula Melaka for a hint of sweetness.

The White Chocolate Bana Gateaux features ivory whipped ganache layered with fluffy chocolate cake, complete with a crunchy praline feuilletine and soft banana confit that provide different dimensions of textures and flavours.

Savouries include the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, Homemade Virginia Ham Sandwich, Laksa Tart, Egg Pinwheel Roll, and Cucumber Sandwich.

Not to be missed is the Singaporean Chilli Crab Brioche Roll, with a fluffy soft brioche roll filled with crabmeat and savoury sweet chilli sauce. Another local favourite is the Laksa Tart, baked with laksa spices and topped with poached shrimp.

These decadent afternoon treats will not be complete without the finest beverage selection. Choose from an elaborate range of nearly 20 types of TWG Tea loose leaf, featuring locally inspired Singapore Breakfast and Weekend in Singapore and aromatic brews from Bacha Coffee. Take the teatime affair up a notch and sip on dreamy bubbly or toast to an Espresso Noisette and Brewberry Colada, handcrafted cocktail and non-alcoholic cocktail by Atrium's mixologists.

Panache of Singapore Afternoon Tea
- $52.00 per diner | includes a pot of TWG Tea or Bacha Coffee
- $62.00 per diner | includes a glass of Copenhagen Sparkling Tea or Brewberry Colada (non-alcoholic cocktail)
- $72.00 per diner | includes a glass of Champagne or Espresso Noisette (cocktail)

Words and photos 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.


Atrium @ Pan Pacific Singapore
Pan Pacific Hotel Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 6pm

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

Pang Zi Durian @ Jurong West - Neighbourhood Durian Specialty Cafe

Looking for durian treats but can't wait for the durian season to arrive? Pang Zi Durian is a neighbourhood durian speciality cafe aiming to offer a wide range of handcrafted durian desserts that contain no preservatives to satisfy your cravings. They've recently launched three new innovative durian creations.

Durian Milkshake 3.5/5

The first dessert we had was their Durian Milkshake ($6.50). It was creamy and smooth, with a thick consistency. Mix the shake thoroughly to enjoy the durian flesh on the bottom. The shake tastes more on the milky end, while the durian notes are much lighter. It can get quite heavy for some, hence would recommend sharing this with a friend.

Mao Shan Wang Spaghettieis 3.8/5

The unique Mao Shan Wang Spaghettieis ($11.90) has pasta-shaped mao shan wang gelato sitting on vanilla cream, with coconut cream and coconut flakes on top. The mao shan wang gelato was rich, while the vanilla cream gave a different dimension to the dessert. We also appreciated the crisp bits of coconut flakes. We recommend sharing this as the sweetness and creaminess can get quite heavy. It melts pretty fast, so digs into it quickly upon serving.

Durian Sticky Rice 4.2/5

Our favourite was the Durian Sticky Rice ($7.90). You have warm glutinous rice served with coconut cream and a generous portion of unadulterated durian flesh. The rice was lovely. It was soft, chewy and fragrant, everything you'd want your sticky rice to be. If you want something not too sweet, this is the one to go for among the three shared here.

Apart from these new creations, Pang Zi Durian also offers other items, like durian puffs, durian mousse, and a range of ice cream flavours such as white coconut, dark chocolate, lychee yuzu, salted caramel popcorn, ondeh ondeh and more.

If you can't pop by their space, Pang Zi Durian also does island-wide delivery at $5 for a minimum spending of $40 and free for orders $80 and above. For Jurong and Bukit Batok residents, you can enjoy free delivery at a minimum of $40.

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.


Pang Zi Durian
Block 492 Jurong West Street 41
#01-18
Singapore 640492
Tel: +65 81939559
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Nearest MRT: Lakeside (EW Line)

Opening Hours
Daily: 12pm - 10pm

Directions:
1) Alight at Lake Side MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road. Walk to bus stop opposite Lakeside MRT station (Stop ID 28099). Take bus number 98 and 187. Alight 4 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

JUMBO Signatures @ Marina Bay Sands - JUMBO Group’s New Premium Dining Concept

Stepping into JUMBO Signatures at Marina Bay Sands, you will notice a difference in ambience and decor from the other familiar Jumbo Seafood restaurants. Opened in January this year, JUMBO Signatures is also JUMBO Group’s first premium dining concept. The 76-seater restaurant houses 3 VIP rooms suitable for meetings, intimate gatherings and celebrations.

Three different menus were curated to cater to various groups of diners. Besides the Signatures Ala-Carte Menu, the Executive Set Lunch offers 3-course at $58 per pax and 4-course at $62 per pax. During this visit, we tried their Signatures Tasting Menu ($158 per pax).

You will enjoy an 8-course meal, amuse bouche, and a palette cleanser. In addition, a wine pairing is available for a top-up at $118 per pax. Menu items are refreshed every couple of months to ensure that the best-quality ingredients are used.

Marinated Jellyfish, Seafood Cone 4/5

We started the meal with two appetising amuse bouche, the Marinated Jellyfish and Seafood Cone. The marinated jellyfish was tangy and crunchy. The seafood cone, which comes in a charcoal cone, has a tasty mouthful of prawn, mango, cucumber and salad cream.

Shelled Prawn Fried with Seaweed and Pork Floss 4/5

Moving on to starters, we had the Shelled Prawn Fried with Seaweed and Pork Floss. I was excited to try this, as this is a creation inspired by Baoshifu 鲍师傅, a China pastry shop that specialises in seaweed meat floss cakes. I enjoyed the crisp pork floss and seaweed mix here. The prawn was fresh with a slight crunch.

Scallop Wrapped in Yam Ring 4.2/5

The Scallop Wrapped in Yam Ring had smooth yam purée around a juicy scallop, served with a house-special sweet sauce. The thin exterior had a delightful crisp.

Chilled Hand-Shredded Live Australian Lobster with Fruit Salad in Sesame Dressing 3.8/5

The last starter was the Chilled Hand-Shredded Live Australian Lobster with Fruit Salad in Sesame Dressing. The lobster meat was firm and fresh, but the dressing was a touch too heavy. I would have liked it done lighter to allow more of the meat's natural sweetness to come through.

Collagen Soup with Fish Maw and Bamboo Pith 4.8/5

There's no additional starch used in the Collagen Soup with Fish Maw and Bamboo Pith. Instead, it's lightly peppered and thickened through hours of simmering chicken bones, pork fat and pork skin. You will find dried scallops, fresh fish maw, goji berries and bamboo pith in it as well. It was extremely comforting and nourishing, and the slices of fish maw were very tender.

Chilli Mud Crab Pincer 4.8/5

Singaporeans would definitely be familiar with JUMBO Seafood's award-winning chilli crab. Here they offer the Chilli Mud Crab Pincer that is thoughtfully deshelled for you to sink your teeth right into. There's a good heat in the chilli crab sauce made with ten over spices, perfect with the side of crispy fried mantou.

Pomegranate Soda

Before the next course, we had a palate cleanser of Pomegranate Soda.

Sliced Luffa Melon in Collagen Soup 4.5/5

In the Sliced Luffa Melon in Collagen Soup, the luffa is carefully hand sliced into noodle-like strips and served in yet another comforting collagen soup, with fried shredded conpoy, Jin Hua ham and Sakura ebi. I enjoyed the smart addition of crispy ebi that gave extra texture and flavour.

‘Yuan Yang’ Fried Rice with Cod Fish and Fresh Mushroom 4/5

There are two carbs options for the next course. First is the 'Yuan Yang' Fried Rice with Cod Fish and Fresh Mushroom. It's a hearty dish studded with scallop bits, cod fish, king oyster mushroom, tobiko and crispy rice.

Udon with Sliced Abalone 3.8/5

The Udon with Sliced Abalone is much lighter in comparison, which uses a dashi base.

‘Cheng Teng’ with Bird’s Nest and Peach Resin 3.5/5

We had the mildly sweetened 'Cheng Teng' with Bird's Nest and Peach Resin for dessert. You can choose to have this hot or cold.

Signature Fragrant Rice in Rich Seafood Broth 4.8/5

From the a la carte menu, we had the Signature Fragrant Rice in Rich Seafood Broth ($38). Jasmine rice, crispy rice, fresh mud crab meat and botan ebi is served in a hot stone bowl before the umami-rich prawn broth is poured over. On the side, you also get to enjoy a fried botan ebi prawn head that's lightly seasoned with salt and pepper. I loved the rich seafood sweetness here!

Durian Tart paired with Ice Cream 4/5

The Durian Tart paired with Ice Cream ($14) comprises handmade Mao Shan Wang durian pureé, coconut ice cream and pandan sauce. I thought the tart worked sufficiently well on its own. I expected it to be very rich and sweet, but the well-balanced pureé was quite a delight.

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.


JUMBO Signatures
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands Singapore
B1-01B
2 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018972
Tel: +65 66887023
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bayfront (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch
Mon-Fri, Eve of Public Holidays: 11.30am - 3pm
Sat-Sun, Public Holidays: 12pm - 3.30pm

Dinner
Sat-Thurs, Public Holidays: 5.30pm - 10.30pm
Fri-Sat, Eve of Public Holidays: 5.30pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bayfront MRT station. Take Exit C or D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes.  [Map]