Les Canons @ IOI Building - A Taste of Parisian Bistro Charm in Singapore’s CBD

Tucked within the bustling Central Business District at IOI Building, Les Canons by the ilLido Group brings the charm of a Parisian neighbourhood bistro into a relaxed, everyday dining setting. Inspired by the easy rhythms of city life, the all-day French bistro moves seamlessly from breakfast to after-work apéro and casual dinners, offering a repertoire of classic French comfort dishes at wallet-friendly prices.

Duck Rillettes 4.2/5

We began with a selection of small bites, starting with the Duck Rillettes ($9). The slow-cooked duck, shredded and preserved in its own fat, delivered a rich, savoury depth, best enjoyed spread over a crusty baguette. While satisfying, we found ourselves wishing for more bread to match the generous portion of rillettes.

Calamari with Cocktail Sauce 4.8/5

A standout starter was the Calamari with Cocktail Sauce ($10). Lightly battered and fried to a golden crisp, the calamari remained tender within. The accompanying Marie Rose-style cocktail sauce is creamy with a gentle tang, elevating the dish, making it irresistibly moreish.

Escargots 4.2/5

The Escargots ($12) is a quintessential French staple, featuring half a dozen snails bathed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. The escargots were clean-tasting, perfumed with the richness of butter and garlic. Once again, extra baguettes would have been welcome to mop up every last bit of the luscious sauce.

Foie Gras 4/5

For something more indulgent, the Foie Gras ($16) offered a decadent experience. The pan-seared duck liver was beautifully caramelised on the outside while retaining a buttery, melt-in-the-mouth interior. Served atop a savoury pancake, it leaned heavily on richness, and a touch of acidity would have helped balance the dish.

Coq Au Vin 4.2/5

Moving on to mains, the Coq au Vin ($16) embodied rustic French comfort. The spring chicken, gently braised in red wine, was tender and infused with deep, savoury flavours, a hearty and satisfying option.

Pomme Puree 4.5/5

On the side, the Pomme Puree ($5) impressed with its silky-smooth texture and rich buttery finish. It is a simple yet delightful accompaniment that complements the mains perfectly.

Steak Au Poivre 4.2/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($22) stands out as one of the best-value steak frites options in the CBD. The no-frills plate features a well-cooked steak coated in a creamy peppercorn sauce, paired with crispy fries. It delivers on flavour and value, making it a compelling choice for a casual French meal in the city.

Mont Blanc 4/5

Desserts continued the classic French theme. The Mont Blanc ($9) layers meringue with light chantilly cream and sweetened chestnut puree, resulting in a nutty, creamy dessert that is indulgent without being overly heavy. The Mousse au Chocolat ($8) keeps things traditional, offering a smooth, airy texture with a deep, dark chocolate profile that will appeal to those who prefer less sweetness. Meanwhile, the Tarte Fine Aux Pommes ($9) provides a lighter finish, with its crisp, buttery pastry topped with thinly sliced caramelised apples and served alongside chantilly cream.

Mousse Au Chocolat 4.2/5

Wine takes centre stage at Les Canons, with a thoughtfully curated list of over 50 French labels spanning regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Loire Valley and Rhône Valley. With glasses starting from $8 and bottles kept under $100, the programme encourages diners to enjoy wine as part of an everyday dining experience rather than a special occasion indulgence.

Tarte Fine Aux Pommes 4.2/5

Les Canons evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of earlier days when accessible French dining spots such as The French Stall, The Black Sheep Cafe and Saveur first introduced many in Singapore to approachable French cuisine. At a time when French cuisine was largely confined to fine-dining establishments, these places reshaped perceptions — much as Les Canons aims to do today.

With its approachable pricing, comforting classics, and easy-going ambience, Les Canons successfully captures the spirit of a Parisian bistro while fitting neatly into the pace of CBD life. It is a welcoming spot for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners, offering a taste of France without the formality.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Les Canons
IOI Central Boulevard Towers
2 Central Boulevard
#01-07
Singapore 018916
Tel: +65 89260726
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Downtown (DT Line), Shenton Way (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 830am - 11am (Breakfast), 11am - 10pm
Sat: 11am - 10pm
(Closed on Sun)

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

2) Alight at Shenton Way MRT station. Take Exit 4 or 6. Walk to Commerce Street. Cross the road and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Cafe Quenino @ Artyzen Hotel Singapore - New Concept: Build Your Table The Way You Like. Any Plates, Any Combination

Set within the stylish enclave of Artyzen Singapore, Cafe Quenino introduces a refreshed dining concept that reimagines Singapore's beloved "tze char" culture in a contemporary Orchard setting. Anchored by the philosophy of "tze char comfort for today's table" and a communal format of "plates for the table, shared your way", the experience encourages diners to curate their own feast from a diverse menu of Southeast Asian flavours.

The ordering format is straightforward and convivial. Guests can choose from 3, 5, or 7 plates, paired with sides depending on the selected tier — much like ordering a spread at a traditional tze char establishment. Dishes span starters, mains, larger plates and desserts, all designed for sharing in the middle of the table.

- 3 Plates + Choice of 2 Sides: $88
- 5 Plates + Choice of 3 Sides: $138
- 7 Plates + Choice of 4 Sides: $188

For our visit, we opted for the 5-plate format, with a balanced spread of 2 appetisers, 2 mains, and 1 dessert.

Heirloom Tomato Salad 4.2/5

We started with the Heirloom Tomato Salad, a vibrant medley of coloured tomatoes paired with buffalo mozzarella, basil, shallots and a black vinegar dressing. It was light yet refreshing, whetting the appetite with its bright acidity and clean flavours.

King Salmon Sashimi 4.2/5

Another starter, the King Salmon Sashimi, impressed with its generous portion and quality. The salmon was fresh and buttery, elevated by chilli and black bean accents, while a squeeze of calamansi added a zesty lift that brought the dish together beautifully.

Pineapple Assam Prawn 4.2/5

Moving on to the mains, the Pineapple Assam Prawn delivered robust flavours. The prawns were complemented by cherry tomatoes and okra, all coated in a tangy, spicy tamarind sauce. The balance of sweet, sour, and heat worked harmoniously, highlighting the prawns' natural sweetness.

Ayam Percik 4/5

The Ayam Percik featured half a spring chicken, offering a hearty portion perfect for sharing. The chicken was tender and sat atop a bed of aromatic percik sauce, finished with an onion herb salad that added a fresh contrast.

French Fries with Aioli 4.8/5

Garlic Roasted Baby Potato Curry Leaves 4.2/5

To complement the mains, we had the Coconut Basmati Rice, which paired especially well with the richly flavoured dishes. The French Fries with Aioli turned out to be a standout — crisp on the outside, fluffy within, and highly addictive. The Garlic Roasted Baby Potato with Curry Leaves offered a more aromatic alternative, with earthy notes enhanced by the fragrance of curry leaves.

Coconut Pandan Burnt Cheesecake 3.8/5

The meal ended with the Coconut Pandan Burnt Cheesecake, a localised take on the classic dessert. Infused with pandan and accompanied by coconut whipped cream and grated coconut gula melaka, it delivered familiar flavours. However, the texture leaned denser than expected, lacking the molten centre that would have elevated the indulgence.

Overall, the new concept at Cafe Quenino successfully captures the essence of communal tze char dining while presenting it in a polished, modern format. The flexibility to mix and match dishes across categories makes it an appealing option for groups, offering both variety and a sense of familiarity with a contemporary twist.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Cafe Quenino
Artyzen Singapore
9 Cuscaden Road
Level 1
Singapore 249719
Tel: +65 6371 6020
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 12 midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT Station. Take Exit 1. Walk to Cuscaden Road. Turn right onto Cuscaden Road. Walk down Cuscaden Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT Station. Take Exit 11. Walk down Orchard Boulevard towards the Four Seasons Hotel. Take the walkway beside the Four Seasons Hotel to Cuscaden Road. Walk to the junction of Cuscaden Road and turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Moutarde @ Resorts World Sentosa - Live Carvery, Wood-Fired Roasts & French Bistro Classics

Moutarde by Paul Pairet, located at WEAVE, Resorts World Sentosa, marks the much-anticipated arrival of the much-acclaimed French chef, opened in November 2025. Chef Pairet is best known for his celebrated restaurants, including Ultraviolet, Mr & Mrs Bund, Polux, and Nonos & Comestibles. In Singapore, Moutarde is positioned as a relaxed yet refined bistro, offering diners an approachable way to experience the chef's signature flair. It is a place where quality ingredients meet easygoing charm, making it ideal for casual get-togethers, weekday dinners, or long weekend lunches.

Moutarde brings an easy, unpretentious French charm with warm lighting, clinking glasses, and tables meant for gathering. Inspired by the convivial spirit of modern Parisian bistros, the restaurant celebrates generous flavours and simple pleasures, where whole cuts, comforting sides, and classic French favourites come together in a relaxed, lively setting. Guests are encouraged to linger a little longer, share generously, and savour simple pleasures done exceptionally well. It is French dining at its most relaxed and heartfelt, where the mood is lively, the plates comforting, and the experience unmistakably Pairet.

We began our meal with warm bread accompanied by butter infused with soy sauce. It had an interesting flavour profile that is buttery, creamy, and savoury. I found it somewhat reminiscent of mentaiko.

Tarama - Za'atar 4.2/5

Tarama - Za'atar ($14) is a smooth, briny emulsion made from smoked cod fish roe blended with a Middle Eastern spice mix, served with focaccia toast. The spread delivers a creamy, smoky, and salty base from the roe, balanced by the earthy and citrusy notes of za'atar, with a gentle lift from sumac. It is best enjoyed generously spread over warm focaccia.

La Salade Parisienne 4.2/5

The La Salade Parisienne is a beautiful composition, bursting with vibrant colours from butter lettuce, white ham, eggs, potatoes, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Visually appetising, the dish comes together in a harmonious play of flavours and textures, offering both freshness and comforting familiarity.

Smoked Salmon Essential 4.2/5

Smoked Salmon Essential ($20) features salmon smoked in-house using aromatic jasmine tea, served alongside lightly toasted sourdough. I particularly enjoyed eating it bruschetta-style, spreading the soy lemon cream onto the toast before layering it with slices of the delicately smoked salmon.

Cheese Soufflé 4.2/5

The Cheese Soufflé ($20) is a Gruyère-based soufflé made with extra-soft cheese, making it a haven for cheese lovers. A distinctive feature is that the servers inject a rich cheese emulsion directly into the centre of the soufflé after it is served, ensuring a molten, flavourful core. Due to its delicate nature, it typically requires 15 to 20 minutes of preparation time. A small side salad accompanies the dish, helping to cut through the richness.

Undeniably, the centrepiece and beating heart of Moutarde's dining experience is its live carvery station, a mouth-watering and captivating spectacle where whole wood-fired roasted cuts are sliced with precision and flair. Drawing from a formative early-1990s London memory of the classic British carving trolley, Chef Paul composes his own unique version of this quintessential dining concept, debuting it here in Singapore.

Wood-Oven Roasted Prime Rib 4.5/5

The highlight has to be the Wood-Oven Roasted Prime Rib, Australian Angus Signature Black, served with au jus and lemon cream. The meat was fatty, tender, and juicy, slow-cooked as a whole large cut in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a beautifully pink and tender, marbled hunk of beef. It is paired with a selection of mustards. As the carvery items rotate daily, the prime rib is subject to availability and may not be offered every day.

Singapore Pepper Short Ribs 4.5/5

Another standout from the carvery is the Singapore Pepper Short Ribs ($38 for 180g). The ribs are coated in a fragrant pepper blend and slow-cooked until tender, developing caramelised edges and a subtle peppery lift reminiscent of char siew. The smoky exterior gives way to a juicy, melt-in-the-mouth interior, finished with a glossy black pepper sauce that carries hints of sweetness, akin to kicap manis. This dish was originally introduced by Chef de Cuisine Glen Tay at Ultraviolet before being brought to Moutarde.

Scallop Truffle New Meuniere 4.2/5

The Scallop Truffle New Meunière features plump Hokkaido scallops gently pan-seared until golden, retaining a tender, translucent centre that highlights their natural sweetness. They are paired with silky mashed potatoes, providing a smooth, buttery base. Finished with a truffle-infused modern meunière, the sauce balances nutty, browned-butter notes with subtle citrus brightness. Luxurious yet restrained, the dish allows the pristine quality of the scallops to remain the star.

Mushroom Garlic 4.5/5

To complement the mains and roasted meats, we ordered several side dishes. One of my favourites was the Mushroom Garlic ($10), a comforting mixed mushroom fricassée gently sautéed to preserve its natural earthiness and finished with fragrant garlic. Cooked slowly to release their juices, the mushrooms form a light, velvety sauce that coats each bite without overpowering. Rich yet restrained, with deep umami notes and a smooth, creamy finish.

French Fries Allumettes 4.2/5

The French Fries Allumettes ($8) are hand-cut, extra-thin fries fried until golden and crisp. Delicate yet crunchy on the outside with a light, fluffy interior, these slim fries deliver a clean potato flavour. Simple, but very addictive.

Charred Asparagus Skewer 4/5

Fresh Green Asparagus is threaded onto skewers and konro-grilled over intense heat, creating a lightly charred exterior while keeping the stalks tender and juicy. The grilling imparts a subtle smokiness that enhances the asparagus's natural sweetness, resulting in a dish that is simple, aromatic, and deeply savoury.

Charred Leeks Essential 3.8/5

Whole Leeks are gently charred until smoky and tender, revealing their natural sweetness beneath the caramelised exterior. Finished with a vibrant sauce ravigote for freshness and acidity, and a drizzle of hazelnut oil for warm, nutty depth, this minimalist dish highlights purity, balance, and technique.

 

Mango - Earl Granite 4/5

Mango - Earl Granite ($14) is a refreshing earl grey granita delicately perfumed with bergamot, served alongside ripe mango. Finished with tangy passion fruit syrup and fresh raspberries, the dessert delivers a bright interplay of citrus, floral tea notes, and tropical sweetness.

The Real French Toast 4.2/5

The Real French Toast ($14) features soft, fluffy brioche on the inside, with a golden, crisp exterior, paired with smooth ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold creates a delightful interplay of flavours and textures. This is certainly not your average brunch fare, a thick slice of brioche that remains pillowy inside while perfectly caramelised outside.

Raspberry Chantilly 4/5

To round off the meal, we had the Raspberry Chantilly. As someone who is not fond of overly sweet desserts, this was a refreshing change. The raspberry sorbet was the highlight, vividly red and packed with a tart, zippy tang that really whets the appetite. Topped with airy vanilla Chantilly, the fragrant cream helped balance the acidity of the berries. Simple yet well-executed, the ratio of cream to sorbet was spot on, making each spoonful a harmonious blend of creamy sweetness and fruit tartness.

Moutarde is a welcome addition to Singapore's dining landscape, a restaurant that carries the weight of Chef Paul Pairet's celebrated legacy without any of the stuffiness. Whether you are drawn in by the live carvery spectacle, the convivial bistro atmosphere, or simply the promise of well-executed French cooking in a relaxed setting, Moutarde delivers on all fronts. Do make your reservations early.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Moutarde
Weave
Resorts World Sentosa
26 Sentosa Gateway
#B1-219 to 221
Singapore 098138
Tel: +65 65776256
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC, NE Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbourfront MRT station. Take Exit C or E. Walk to Vivocity Level 3 to Vivocity Monorail Station. Take the Monorail to Sentosa. Alight at Resorts World Station. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 10 minutes. [Map]

Lotteria @ Jewel Changi Airport - South Korea’s No. 1 Burger Chain Lotteria Debuts in Singapore

South Korea’s beloved fast-food icon Lotteria has officially landed in Singapore, marking its much-anticipated debut at Jewel Changi Airport. Operated in partnership with local lifestyle group Katrina Group, the opening introduces Singapore diners to the original K-burger brand that has shaped South Korea’s burger culture for generations. Known for its distinctly Korean flavours and playful menu, Lotteria’s arrival adds a fresh new dimension to Singapore’s fast-food scene.

Ria’s Shrimp Burger 4.2/5

Ria’s Shrimp Burger (from $7.20 à la carte), a cult favourite and one of Lotteria’s signature items, features a crisp yet bouncy shrimp patty that delivers a satisfying bite without feeling heavy. The combination of tartar and Thousand Island sauces keeps things light and tangy, while the soft, fluffy bun does an excellent job of holding everything together. Simple, comforting, and easy to enjoy.

Ria’s Bulgogi Burger 4.2/5

Ria’s Bulgogi Burger (from $7.20 à la carte), inspired by the classic Korean bulgogi dish, offers a sweet-savoury flavour profile that feels instantly familiar. The beef patty is juicy, and the bulgogi sauce adds a pleasant depth without overpowering the palate. A solid choice for those who prefer traditional Korean flavours in burger form.

Kimchi Bulgogi Burger 4.2/5

Created exclusively for Singapore, the Kimchi Bulgogi Burger (from $7.80 à la carte) is a bold expression of Lotteria’s Korean roots with a local twist. A juicy beef patty glazed in sweet-savoury bulgogi sauce is layered with tangy kimchi, delivering a punchy balance of richness, spice, and umami in every bite. This is easily one of the more exciting options on the menu.

Mozzarella Burger Tomato Basil 4.5/5

One of Lotteria’s most iconic and indulgent offerings, the Mozzarella Burger Tomato Basil (from $12.50 à la carte) is all about that dramatic cheese pull. Loaded with rich mozzarella and accented with a tomato-basil twist, this burger leans heavily into comfort and indulgence. It’s no surprise this burger became a massive hit overseas, selling an impressive 450,000 units in its first week and eventually earning a permanent spot on the menu. It is also my favourite burger among the burgers I tried.

Shake Shake Fries 4/5

The Shake Shake Fries ($5.20 for a regular size) come with a choice of onion, cheese, or chilli seasoning. Our favourite is the cheese seasoning, which adds a savoury boost that makes the fries dangerously addictive. Fun, customisable, and great for sharing.

Gangjung Chicken 4/5

Lotteria’s Gangjung Chicken (from $9 à la carte) delivers on texture and flavour. The fried chicken is juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and generously coated in a sweet-and-spicy sauce that hits all the right notes without being cloying.

Cup Bingsu 2.5/5

Perfect in concept for Singapore’s tropical climate, the Cup Bingsu ($5.90) is refreshing but slightly underwhelming in execution. The shaved ice is noticeably coarser than expected, detracting from the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth experience typically associated with bingsu.

Overall, Lotteria’s debut brings a nostalgic yet refreshing Korean fast-food experience to Singapore. With its unique burgers, playful sides, and distinctly Korean flavours, it offers something a little different from the usual fast-food fare, and it’s a welcome addition to Jewel Changi Airport’s ever-growing dining lineup.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lotteria
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#B1-248
Singapore 819666
Facebook
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

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