Vineyard @ Hortpark - All-You-Can-Eat A La Carte French Buffet at $58

Vineyard at Hortpark serves up French cuisine with a touch of local flair. The restaurant is currently running a promotion for its All-You-Can-Eat à la carte French Buffet at $58++ (U.P. $98++). The menu entices with a range of starters, including classics such as Duck Rillette and Moules Marinières, comforting soups and salads, and mains featuring iconic dishes such as Duck Leg Confit and Steak Frites.

Gruyère Cheese Zucchini Croquette 4/5

The Gruyère Cheese Zucchini Croquette arrived golden and crisp, with rich, oozy cheese complemented by julienned zucchini. The filling could have been less wet for a better texture, and given its richness, a mustard-based sauce might have worked more effectively than the French ranch drizzle to cut through and balance the flavours.

Country-Style French Duck Rillette 4.5/5

One of our favourites was the Country-Style French Duck Rillette — meaty and unctuous without being overly fatty.

Mushroom Pâté 3/5

The Mushroom Pâté with Apricot Compote was delectable, though we found it slightly on the sweeter side.

Ah Hua Kelong Mussels Marinière 4.8/5

Embracing the ethos of farm-to-table dining, Vineyard also sources produce locally, creating dishes such as the Ah Hua Kelong Mussels Marinière. The white wine butter sauce was incredibly full-bodied and flavourful, making this an excellent showcase of our local mussels.

Vegetable Garbure Soup 5/5

The humble Vegetable Garbure Soup was another highlight of our experience. A traditional dish from Gascony in southwestern France, it was prepared with GG French Poulet broth, giving the soup a full-bodied depth of flavour, gently laced with subtle smokiness from the chunks of smoked ham. Brimming with vegetables, the wholesome soup also featured Ravioles du Dauphiné, adding an extra layer of texture and richness to the dish.

Vineyard Salad 5/5

Vineyard Salad was a plateful of wholesome ingredients that delighted with both freshness and textural crunch. Homegrown greens, watermelon radish, cucumber, and tomatoes brought refreshing notes, complemented by the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot and bursts of zest from orange slices. Creamy feta cheese balanced the greens beautifully, while candied walnuts imparted a moreish, sweet-nutty and satisfying crunch in every bite.

French Duck Leg Confit 4.8/5

For mains, the standout was definitely the French Duck Leg Confit, one of the better versions I have had in a long time. The moist and tender duck meat contrasted beautifully with its crisp exterior, brilliantly complemented by a zesty L’Orange sauce. The accompanying duck-fat-roasted potatoes also hit the right spot, with their fluffy interior and lightly crisped exterior.

Oven-Roasted Great Hill Free Range Chicken Leg 4.5/5

The succulent Oven-Roasted Great Hill Free Range Chicken Leg was another crowd-pleaser, paired with a mustard brown sauce that elevated the dish with tantalising savoury notes. It was served with the same indulgent duck-fat-roasted potatoes, which were equally satisfying.

Steak Frites 3/5

As for the Steak Frites featuring a Grass-Fed Striploin, while the steak itself was enjoyable, the brandy peppercorn sauce did not quite complement the meat as well as we had hoped. What truly stood out were the handcrafted French fries, reminiscent of exceptionally good double-fried Belgian fries cooked in beef fat.

Limoncello Tiramisu 4.2/5

For dessert, the Limoncello Tiramisu was a delight. Crafted with lemon curd, finger sponge, and limoncello, it offered bright citrusy notes, beautifully balanced by a contrasting caramelised, buttery sweetness from the Speculoos crumbs.

Altogether, it had been a satisfying dining experience marked by a few memorable highlights that made it well worth a visit. This à la carte French buffet is available for dinner only on Monday to Friday and all day on the weekends.

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.


Vineyard
Hortpark
33 Hyderabad Road
#02-02
Singapore 119578
Tel: +65 6479 7977
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Nearest MRT: Telok Blangah (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 1030am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Blangah MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to the bus stop at Telok Blangah MRT station (Stop ID14161). Take bus number 61, 93, 97, 100, 120, 166 or 963. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to Hyderabad Road. Walk up Hyderabad Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 15 minutes. [Map]

Dream Cruises x Chef Tommie Lee: A Refined 5-Course French Dining Experience at Sea

In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Dream Cruises has partnered with Chef Tommie Lee, affectionately known as “French Papa” from Culinary Class War, to present an exclusive five-course French dining experience onboard the Genting Dream. This refined collaboration brings a touch of French elegance to the high seas, offering diners a rare opportunity to savour dishes inspired by Chef Tommie’s competition repertoire, complete with optional wine pairings thoughtfully curated for each course.

Available at Bistro Restaurant (Deck 8) until 3 July 2026, the menu is priced at $90 nett per person, or $132 nett with wine pairing. For those seeking something beyond the usual cruise fare, this experience delivers a full-on French gastronomic journey at sea.

Adding to the occasion, Chef Tommie Lee made a special appearance onboard, engaging warmly with guests, answering questions, and even hosting a live cooking demonstration. Watching him prepare the Escargot Vol-au-Vent firsthand elevated the entire dining experience, offering insight into the dish’s finesse.

Escargot Vol-au-Vent 4.8/5

The meal began with the Escargot Vol-au-Vent, a classic French appetiser that showcased both technique and flavour. The buttery, flaky pastry shell encased tender escargots coated in a rich, herbaceous filling. Each bite delivered a satisfying contrast between the crisp pastry and the savoury, aromatic interior, setting the tone for the courses to follow.

Prosciutto Ham with Mesclun Salad 4/5

Next was the Prosciutto Ham with Mesclun Salad, a lighter course that refreshed the palate. The delicate saltiness of the prosciutto was balanced by a vibrant mix of mesclun greens, shaved Parmesan, and briny Kalamata olives. A zesty lemon dressing tied the components together, allowing the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine through with elegance and restraint.

Bouillabaisse Maison 4.8/5

The Bouillabaisse Maison followed, presenting a comforting yet refined interpretation of the traditional French seafood stew. The saffron-infused broth was fragrant and deeply flavourful, enriched with the essence of the sea. A medley of fresh seafood added both texture and sweetness, making this dish a soulful highlight of the menu.

Slow Roast Veal Tenderloin, Foie Gras and Truffle Roulade 4/5

Taking centre stage was the Slow Roast Veal Tenderloin, Foie Gras & Truffle Roulade, a dish that embodied indulgence. The veal was tender and succulent, complemented by the richness of foie gras and the earthy aroma of truffle. Accompaniments of green pea mash and roasted carrot purée added sweetness and balance, while the port wine sauce lent a luxurious depth, tying all the elements together harmoniously.

Chocolate Mousse with Dulce de Leche Espuma 4.5/5

Dessert was a Chocolate Mousse with Dulce de Leche Espuma, rounding off the meal on a decadent note. The mousse was smooth and velvety, delivering deep chocolate intensity, while the airy dulce de leche espuma provided a light, caramel sweetness that lifted the dish without overwhelming it.

Overall, this collaboration between Dream Cruises and Chef Tommie Lee offers a distinctive and memorable dining experience that stands out from typical cruise cuisine. With its thoughtful execution, refined flavours, and the added charm of Chef Tommie’s presence, it is an experience not to be missed for lovers of French gastronomy.

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]

Pardon My French @ Icon Village

Pardon My French? If you search online, the first thing that would come out is this " The phrase is uttered in an attempt to excuse the user of profanity, swearing, or curses in the presence of those offended by it under the pretense of the words being part of a foreign language." A couple of pages and you will find, there is actually a French restaurant by this name located at Icon Village. Barely a month old, I was looking forward to see what it has got to offer.  Judging by the name, would it be something quirky and bold?

With a small frontage, one may easily miss it. (it is right beside 7 Eleven). With only 3 tables plus another alfresco seating, its tiny space surprises me.  It holds a certain charm reminiscent of a small brasserie, and if warm lights were used instead of its current white, I believe it would be even cosier.  The menu is quite straight forward, with a few quintessential French dish - Poulet, Duck confit, Beef stew and Fish baked with ratatouille. Pastas are available as well.  It also offers quite affordable and interesting breakfast items for Saturday.  No coffee though, but its unique selection of teas makes up for it.

Paquet DePoisson 4/5

We went straight for their mains - Duck Confit ($25.00), Boeuf Bourguignon ( Beef stew $17.00) and my favourite dish Paquet De Poisson (Baked Fish Parcel $20.50) which seabass was the Fish of the Day.  The fish came to us hot in its baking paper. As we unveiled it, what intrigued me was the beautiful bright orangy sauce around it - Capsicum sauce, a twist to the original recipe created by the chef. Together with the huge slices of zucchini and just a tinge of seasoning, it enhances both the look and taste of the dish. Moist and tender, the fish even had a crisp-top even though it was baked enclosed in paper.

Duck Confit 3.8/5

Its Duck Confit ($25) has a slight twist to it as well, being paired with mashed pumpkin instead of potatoes. Thin and crisp skin with very tender meat, and it was not gamey at all.  However, I didn't feel the mashed pumpkin goes well with it. Something more starchy than the mashed pumpkin would have been better to counter the richness of the confit.

Beef Stew 3/5

Its Beef Stew came to us looking real promising but was also the most disappointing for me. The soupy gravy was very flavourful and I enjoyed soaking it up with the deep fried mantou which proves to be a yummy combination. According to the chef, Oxtail was used for its collagen, that will give the stew the rich consistency without having to add any fats to it. I expected the meat to be soft and tender and falling off the bones. That was what I had in Essen, my very first oxtail stew and I loved it!  However, this was simply too tough for me to chew.

Ruby Pear 4.2/5

As for dessert, Ruby Pear ($6.50) is a must-have here.  Soaked in red wine, the pear compote was served warmed with homemade Bailey's ice cream, adding on to its alcohol undertone. I have tried fruit compote served with vanilla ice cream which are often too sweet and dense, but this is light and tastes clean.  The only issue I have is with the ice cream, that melted so fast on the warm pear that 2 tiny bites were all I managed to get.

Pardon My French isn't as adventurous as I thought it will be, but after numerous big names sprouting in our small city, I appreciate such an earnest set up, without all the decorations. From the twists done to the dishes, I can see that the chefs have achieved a good foundation from their culinary training.  Certainly there are some rough edges (there are even handwritten strike offs & add ons in the menu), but as Derrick has cleverly pointed out, like its name, we should pardon them for being less of a French. (our expectations).

Written 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.



Pardon My French
Icon Village
12 Gopeng Street
#01-16
Singapore 078877
Tel: +65 64109353
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 230pm, 530pm - 830pm
Sat: 10am - 230pm

Direction: 
Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street. Turn right onto Gopeng Street. Walk to the junction of Gopeng Street and Tras Street. Turn left onto Tras Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]