Nomada @ Keong Saik - Where Tradition Meets Bold Perspective, Where Every Flavour Tells A Story

A recent addition to the lively Keong Saik restaurant scene, Nómada has quickly become a buzzworthy spot, even drawing a full house on a weekday evening when we visited. Chef Gonzalo Landin, formerly of Binomio and Set of Six, brings his global culinary expertise to the table, serving Spanish cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.

The décor at Nómada showcases rustic Spanish charm with a sleek, contemporary elegance, featuring warm lighting and earthy tones. For private events, there's also a curtained-off area towards the back of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.

Upon reviewing the menu, it's clear that Chef Landin doesn't shy away from incorporating adventurous ingredients, making Nómada an exciting choice even for the seasoned foodie. If you're game to try something a little different, there's chicken liver, ox tongue and even pig ears on the menu! But don't worry if that's not for you — the à la carte format ensures everyone can choose something you'll enjoy.

Homemade Flatbread with Za’atar 4/5

We started our dinner with the Homemade Flatbread with Za'atar ($16), a starter featuring Za'atar — a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend. This aromatic mix typically combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. The flatbread was soft and pillowy, topped with goat cheese and rocket.

Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada 3/5

Next, we were served Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada (2pcs, $16), which had a vibrant presentation thanks to the sobrasada. This soft spread, made from cured pork sausage and seasoned with paprika and other spices, brings a smoky flavour to the dish. However, the combination of the spicy sobrasada and the oyster didn't particularly complement each other.

Squids, Lemon & Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion 4.2/5

I much preferred the Squid with Lemon & Parsley Sauce and Squid Ink Emulsion ($26), where the lemon and parsley sauce really stood out. Zesty and fresh, it was so delicious that I found myself going back for more. The squid itself was sufficiently tender with a slight chewiness, the subtle taste of the squid allowing the brightness of the sauce to shine through.

Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower ($38) was a comforting dish that delivered hearty, savoury flavours. The short ribs were cooked very well, with a fork-tender texture. However, the dish gets a bit heavy and slightly oily after a while, so it's best to share it.

Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage 4.5/5

Between the beef and pork dishes we tried, we unanimously agreed that the Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage ($38) was our preferred choice. The pork chop was juicy and tender, with a hint of pink in the centre. We also loved the apple cider gel's subtle sweetness and tanginess, which added a lovely balance to the taste of the pork. The apple cider gel is also something interesting and different from the apple sauce you usually get with pork chops.

Iberico Pluma Rice 4.8/5

I was very impressed with the Iberico Pluma Rice ($68), a paella dish served in a large, shallow pan. The rice was rich and savoury, having absorbed the full depth of the broth and seasonings. The texture of the rice was slightly chewy, offering a substantial mouthfeel and delightfully crispy bits at the bottom and sides. Cooked with Iberico Pluma, a tender cut of pork, this dish satisfied my paella cravings.

Custard & Nutmeg Tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream 4/5

At first glance, I mistook this for a cheesecake, and perhaps it was inspired by the cheesecake and given a little twist. The Custard & Nutmeg Tart, paired with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16), featured a velvety custard filling, subtly spiced with nutmeg, whilst the salted caramel ice cream lent this dessert a sweet and salty creaminess.

Nómada's menu is different from traditional Spanish restaurants, with a style sure to appeal to those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work, though it also means you might leave with a slight smokiness on your clothes.

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


Nomada
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-05
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 8209 7809
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (DT, EW, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Surrey Hills Grocer @ Vivocity - Largest Surrey Hills Outlet, Bringing Diners the Aussie Rainforest Experience

Surrey Hills Grocer has unveiled its largest branch on VivoCity's rooftop, offering diners an Aussie rainforest-themed experience. The cosy space is adorned with lush greenery and playful animal decor like kangaroos, koalas, and giraffes.

Like its other branches, this new outlet introduces outlet-exclusive dishes and their first ever full kids menu.

Pet owners will also be happy to know that the outlet is pet-friendly and offers an all-new pet-friendly menu. Their freshly made treats are all crafted with quality, human-grade ingredients.

Diners can find a great variety of produce and food items to be purchased. The retail space is in a dedicated store segment near the entrance.

Surrey’s Homemade Iced Lemon Tea

Surrey has an extensive beverage list, which includes alcohols, fresh juices, wines, smoothies, teas and homemade options, such as the mildly sweet Surrey's Homemade Iced Lemon Tea ($8). It is made in-house using cold-brewed premium black tea dust and fresh lemons.

Corn & Crab Chowder 4/5

For a comforting start, we opted for the Corn & Crab Chowder ($14), a mildly creamy soup peppered with sweet crab meat bits and served with a side of focaccia.

Pumpkin Soup 4/5

Equally satisfying was the Pumpkin Soup ($12), which featured warm flavours of burnt orange and dukkah, balanced by a refreshing touch of mint, accompanied by focaccia.

Tender Seared Turkey 4.8/5

To add to the festive cheer, Surrey Hills Grocer has rolled out a seasonal Christmas menu available till the end of December. I was especially excited to try their Tender Seared Turkey ($32), which was strongly recommended by the staff. It was stellar and indeed one of the most tender renditions I've had of the meat. The turkey breast is drizzled with fragrant truffle butter and served with a bed of creamy truffled pomme puree, sherry caramel, miso glaze butternut squash and mushroom gravy.

Christmas Porchetta 4.5/5

Another festive highlight was the Christmas Porchetta ($28), which features tender Spanish chestnut pork belly with perfectly crisped skin stuffed with aromatics and sweet yet tangy apple cider glaze and cranberry apple compote.

Octopus Salad 3.8/5

Unfortunately, the Octopus Salad ($28) was less memorable, primarily due to its texture, which was a little too chewy. The sides of edamame, grape salsa and whipped cod roe went well together.

Flat Bread Hammy Benny 4/5

From the standard menu, we had the Flat Bread Hammy Benny ($26), featuring smoked Kurobuta ham, eggs of your choice, wilted spinach, truffle mushroom ragout, and foam-textured hollandaise on warmed flatbread. While enjoyable, my companions found it slightly overpriced for its simplicity.

Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza 4.2/5

A standout speciality exclusive to this outlet is its Sicilian-style pizzas and pasta. The Hot Honey Pepperoni Pizza ($12) was a crowd-pleaser, featuring creamy ricotta, spicy pepperoni, Parmigiano Reggiano, and a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-spicy kick.

“Hokkien Mee” 4.8/5

Among the pasta options, the "Hokkien Mee" ($26) impressed us with its creative local twist. Al dente malfadine pasta was bathed in a rich prawn bisque with lard and topped with ikura, grilled prawns, and spicy shrimp sambal. It was a bold, crustacean-infused dish.

Roasted Garlic Miso Butter Pasta 4/5

By contrast, the Roasted Garlic Miso Butter Pasta ($22) felt slightly underwhelming. The casarecce pasta, paired with pork sausage, asparagus, and fresh herbs, was well-cooked but lacked the robust flavours of the other dishes.

Strawberries Donut with Vanilla Custard, Vanilla Glazed Donut 3/5

We sampled two donuts for dessert: the Strawberries Donut with Vanilla Custard ($6.50) and the Vanilla Glazed Donut ($5). Both were dense and much sweeter than expected. We favoured the latter for its delicate sugar coating.

Sticky Date Pudding 4.5/5

Finally, the Sticky Date Pudding ($16) stole the show. This moist sponge cake was paired with sea salt butterscotch, almond crumble, and vanilla ice cream. The sweetness was balanced with a contrasting touch of saltiness.

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.


Surrey Hills Grocer
VivoCity
#03-02
1 HarbourFront Walk
Singapore 098585
Tel: +65 8189 6392
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront MRT (NE, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C & E. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Pete's Place @ Grand Hyatt Singapore - Beloved Italian Restaurant Since 1973 Reopens with a Refreshed and Modern Aesthetic

With the much-anticipated reopening of Grand Hyatt Singapore at Scotts Road, the iconic Pete’s Place has also made its comeback. Since 1973, this beloved Italian restaurant has been serving hearty, authentic Italian fare, and its 50-year legacy continues with a refreshed yet cosy atmosphere. While the restaurant has adopted a modern aesthetic, it retains the nostalgic charm of its original design, most notably the signature red brick from its past.

We started our meal with the quintessential Italian welcome: freshly baked warm bread served with olives, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar — a simple yet delightful way to start any Italian feast.

Suppli Romani 4/5

Our first antipasti was the Suppli Romani, an Italian street food classic. These deep-fried potato croquettes arrived golden brown, stuffed with pecorino cheese, and seasoned with black pepper. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, this appetiser was comforting and indulgent, setting an excellent tone for the rest of the meal.

Piadina Pugliese 4.2/5

Next up was the Piadina Pugliese, a flatbread pizza topped with ricotta cheese, coppa ham, and sundried tomatoes. The thin, crispy crust provided a delightful contrast to the creamy ricotta, while the coppa ham and sundried tomatoes added layers of savoury and tangy flavours. A well-executed dish that ticks all the right boxes for texture and taste.

Vitello Tonnato 4/5

The Vitello Tonnato, another antipasti, showcased tender slices of veal complemented by a creamy tuna sauce. The dish was topped with capers, which provided a welcome burst of acidity that enhanced the richness of the veal and tuna combination. It was a unique dish that brought a lovely balance of flavours, from the earthy meatiness of the veal to the light, oceanic notes of the sauce.

Risotto Gamberi e Melone 4.2/5

One of the more surprising dishes was the Risotto Gamberi e Melone. I was initially taken aback by the use of fruit — specifically rock melon — in a risotto. But any scepticism quickly faded as the dish revealed itself. The sweet, juicy rock melon paired harmoniously with the red prawn tartare, while the crispy capers added a delightful crunch. This unexpected combination of flavours worked beautifully, delivering a risotto that was not only refreshing but also memorable.

Bistecca alla Griglia 4/5

We indulged in the Bistecca alla Griglia for mains — a 1kg Australian bone-in ribeye steak grilled to a perfect pink doneness. The Tuscany rub of herbs gave the steak an aromatic and savoury crust, which complemented the rich, juicy meat. Grilled to perfection, the ribeye was flavourful and tender, making it a carnivore's dream. It's definitely a highlight for any meat lover.

Pete's Signature Tiramisu 4.8/5

A visit to Pete's Place would only be complete with trying Pete's Signature Tiramisu. What makes this dessert extra special is the tableside presentation. The chef brings out a whole tray of tiramisu, made with layers of mascarpone, savoiardi biscuits soaked in espresso, and a touch of white amaretto. He serves a generous scoop right at your table, ensuring you get the freshest experience possible. The tiramisu was beautifully balanced — rich and creamy without being overly sweet. It was easily one of the best tiramisus I've had in a long time, a dessert that left a lasting impression.

Pete's Place may have undergone a facelift, but it has kept the essence of what has made it a favourite for so many years. The combination of hearty, authentic Italian dishes with a touch of modern flair continues to draw both old and new patrons alike. The menu offers something for everyone, from the comforting Suppli Romani to the surprising Risotto Gamberi e Melone. And of course, don't leave without trying the Signature Tiramisu — it's a true classic.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pete's Place
Grand Hyatt Singapore
10 Scotts Road
Singapore 228211
Tel: +65 6738 1234
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12 - 230pm, 6 - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about  6minutes. [Map]

Bites & Brews @ Joo Chiat - A Delightful Addition to the Charming Neighbourhood

Nestled in the charming Joo Chiat neighbourhood, Bites & Brews offers a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere perfect for enjoying a variety of brunch favourites and crowd-pleasing dinner selections.

Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread 4.2/5

We began our meal with the Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread ($18). The flatbread was soft and fluffy and infused with the aromatic flavours of za'atar, making it delightful even on its own. The experience was further elevated by the accompanying hummus, honey, and harissa roasted eggplant, which provided multiple dimensions and ways to enjoy this appetiser.

Lemongrass Steak Salad 4.2/5

The Lemongrass Steak Salad ($25) was substantial enough to serve as a meal on its own. The plate was a vibrant mix of watercress, edamame, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin, water chestnuts, and pomegranate, all tossed in a light and appetising Asian dressing. This salad offered a satisfying and hearty meal topped with beautifully grilled, tender steak.

Mapo Tofu Lasagna 4.5/5

The Mapo Tofu Lasagna ($21) showcased Bites & Brews' innovative approach to fusion cuisine. This dish replaces the traditional ground meat with Sichuan meat and tofu ragu, creating a more piquant and exciting flavour profile amidst the layers of pasta sheets. It's a brilliant twist that adds a spicy kick to a classic Italian favourite.

Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper 3/5

However, the Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper ($45) fell short of expectations. The fish was stuffed with Chinese cabbage, kaffir lime, and ginger, but it was unfortunately overcooked and slightly dry. Additionally, the oversteaming may have caused the bitterness of the lemon to infuse into the fish flesh, resulting in a bitter aftertaste. On the bright side, with its tangy pickled flavour, the stuffed cabbage was refreshing and delicious, providing a silver lining to the dish.

Bites & Brews brings a delightful variety of innovative dishes and classic favourites to Joo Chiat, wrapped in a laid-back, resort-like ambience. While there were some hits and misses, the creativity and execution of the dishes, especially the Gold & Purple Hummus and the Mapo Tofu Lasagna, showcase the restaurant's potential. Whether you're there for brunch or dinner, Bites & Brews offers a promising new spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bites & Brews
15 Crane Road
Singapore 429360
Tel: +65 8815 9615
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 12midnight
Sun: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 16 or 33. Alight 3 stops later. Walk towards Carpmael Road. Turn left onto Carpmael Road. Walk down Carpmael Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

AIR @ Dempsey Hill - A Sustainable Dining Experience that Pushes the Boundaries of Culinary Innovation While Rooted in Environmental Consciousness

AIR, an acronym for Awareness, Impact, and Responsibility, represents more than just a restaurant — it's a sprawling 40,000-square-foot oasis at Dempsey Hill. Conceived by Chefs Matthew Orlando and Will Goldfarb, alongside entrepreneur Ronald Akili, this establishment serves as a hub for sustainability, featuring a circular campus encompassing a restaurant, cooking school, research space, and garden farm.

Fermented Cassava Flatbread 3/5

Our dinner commenced with the Fermented Cassava Flatbread ($16), accompanied by whipped mushroom "XO" butter. While the bread exuded a strong, yeasty flavour that didn't quite resonate with my palate, the savoury richness of the mushroom "XO" butter provided a redeeming quality. However, the price tag seemed a tad steep, considering its standard complimentary nature in most establishments.

Crispy Oyster Mushrooms 3.5/5

Next, the Crispy Oyster Mushrooms ($30) emerged from the kitchen. They boasted a delightful interplay of textures and flavours heightened by Sarawak pepper emulsion and pickled chillies. Despite their satisfying crispy exterior and vibrant taste profile, the pricing seemed disproportionate for what essentially amounted to deep-fried mushrooms.

White Fish Ceviche 4/5

A refreshing interlude arrived in the form of White Fish Ceviche ($29) featuring green mango and Kenari nut milk. The dish offered a light and revitalising experience, complemented by the satisfying crunch of emping crisps — an unexpected but welcome addition reminiscent of nachos.

The Whole Coral Grouper For Two 4.2/5

The Whole Coral Grouper For Two ($58) took centre stage for the main course. It is filleted, and confit bathed in a pool of green onion and black garlic vinaigrette sauce. While the fish was excellently prepared, it was the accompanying Smoked Fish Rillette with Fish Bone and Garlic Lavash stole the show, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" 4/5

The Re-Incarnated "Chocolate" ($18) exemplifies the ethos of AIR, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Crafted from by-products of common processes—cocoa husks, cascara, and coconut flesh—the dessert undergoes roasting and grinding with cocoa butter and sugar. The result? Luxurious chocolate bars boasting a rich, roasty flavour with subtle coconut undertones. This ingenious approach mirrors traditional chocolate-making methods yet eschews cocoa beans, epitomising AIR's dedication to creative, eco-conscious cuisine.

The Whole Papaya 3.5/5

The Whole Papaya ($18) dessert represents a creative and inventive approach to utilising the entire fruit. This intriguing creation incorporates not only the papaya fruit itself but also features papaya skin granite and uses papaya seeds to impart a peppery note to the dish. While I admire the innovation behind this dessert, I feel somewhat awkward encountering the papaya seeds during consumption. Nonetheless, it's a commendable effort to reimagine traditional ingredients and minimise waste in culinary creations.

In summary, AIR at Dempsey Hill offers a sustainable dining experience that pushes the boundaries of culinary innovation while remaining rooted in environmental consciousness. While some dishes may fall short of expectations, the overarching commitment to sustainability and responsible dining shines through, making it a noteworthy destination for eco-conscious gastronomes.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


AIR
Dempsey Hill
25B Dempsey Road
Singapore 249670
Tel: +65 8228 1528
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Nearest MRT: Napier (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 530pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Napier MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to bus stop at Napier Station (Stop ID 13011). Take bus number 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 123 or 174. Alight 2 stops later. Take the stairs up to Dempsey Road. Turn left and walk to the open air carpark. Walk all the way to the end of the carpark to the entrance of AIR. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]