Showing posts with label Gelato. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gelato. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Estate @ Hilton Singapore Orchard - “Sunday Social Champagne Brunch”, A Lively Celebration of Indulgence, Bubbly Elegance, and Elevated Weekend Dining

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The Estate introduces a refreshed weekend ritual with its “Sunday Social Champagne Brunch”, a vibrant dining experience that brings together good food, free-flow champagne and a lively social atmosphere. Anchored by the theme “Brunch, but make it Estate”, the experience combines the restaurant’s well-loved buffet spread with curated plated signatures, music, a live DJ spinning throughout the brunch, and family-friendly touches, with the introduction of a dedicated Junior Corner. Free-flow premier French champagne from Moët & Chandon adds a touch of French chic to the afternoon, elevating the indulgence even further.

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Seafood

The brunch begins with Estate’s renowned seafood bar taking centre stage, showcasing premium selections such as fresh French Oysters, Boston Lobsters and Alaskan King Crabs, alongside Tiger Prawns, Scallops, Clams and Mussels. This impressive spread sets the tone for a luxurious experience, offering diners a taste of the ocean’s finest with every visit to the station.

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Carving Meats

At the carving station, diners can look forward to hearty centrepieces such as the tea-smoked whole lamb leg and the lemongrass & coconut-roasted wagyu sirloin. Both offerings deliver bold flavours and succulent textures, making them particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate richly prepared meats.

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Mini Wagyu Slider

The Mini Wagyu Sliders are also worth a mention, featuring juicy patties layered with aged cheddar and caramelised onions, and nestled within fluffy brioche buns. Despite their modest size, these bites are surprisingly satisfying and well-executed.

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Foie Gras/Corned Beef Hash

A key highlight of the brunch is the reimagined lineup of individually plated chef’s signatures, elevating the dining experience beyond the traditional buffet. Favourites include the pan-seared Foie Gras, rich and buttery with a beautifully caramelised exterior, as well as the indulgent corned beef hash with soft scrambled eggs, finished with black truffle essence and caviar.

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Chawanmushi

The Lobster and Yuzu Chawanmushi is another refined creation, delicately steamed in kombu dashi and topped with ikura, delivering a silky texture, umami-rich flavours, and a gentle citrus lift.

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Seared Scallop

Equally noteworthy are the seared Scallop à la Provençale, served with a smooth cauliflower velouté, brown butter and crisp capers. The dish offers a harmonious balance of richness and subtle sweetness, complemented by layers of texture.

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Smoked Salmon and Trout Roulade

The Smoked Salmon and Trout Roulade presents a lighter yet flavourful option, paired with dill crème fraîche, pickled shallots and rye crisps. The combination brings together freshness, tanginess and a pleasant crunch.

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Singapore Chilli Mud Crab/Roasted Meats

Beyond the plated selections, the buffet continues to impress with Estate’s signature spread of international and local favourites, offering diners a wide variety of options to explore throughout the afternoon. Among the highlights are the Singapore Chilli Mud Crab served with mantou, as well as roast meats such as Five-spiced Roasted Duck, Garlic-crusted Roasted Chicken, and Roasted Pork, all of which deliver familiar, comforting flavours.

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Lobster Laksa

Another highlight is the noodle bar, where freshly prepared bowls take centre stage. The Lobster Nyonya Laksa stands out with its rich, aromatic broth. At the same time, other options such as the King Crab Laksa and Yunnan Cong You Ban Mian provide equally satisfying alternatives for those craving something warm and hearty.

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Desserts round off the brunch on a delightful note with an extensive, thoughtfully curated selection. Highlights include Singapore Heritage Nyonya Kueh, caramelised Pecan Tart, Hilton’s iconic Cheesecake, Lavender Rose Tart, and caramelised Pistachio Chocolate Cake. Guests can also enjoy a selection of Gelatos alongside the Estate’s signature handcrafted dessert jars, such as Lemongrass Hazelnut Cookie Crumble, Matcha Azuki Truffle, Japanese Sweet Potato Pudding, Cacao Velvet, and Pumpkin-spiced Panna Cotta.

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With its combination of premium ingredients, curated dishes and lively ambience, the Sunday Social Champagne Brunch delivers a well-rounded and memorable weekend experience that goes beyond the usual buffet format. The Sunday Social Champagne Brunch is available from 12 April 2026 at Hilton Singapore Orchard, priced at $138++ per adult, making it an ideal choice for a celebratory and indulgent Sunday outing.

Every Sunday | 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm
From $138++ per adult (includes chilled juices, coffee, and tea)
For all Sunday Champagne Brunch experiences, top up $80++ for free flow of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut champagne, house red and white wines, beers, Mimosa, and Bellini.


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Words and photos by Crystal. A lady who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Estate
Hilton Singapore Orchard
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
Tel: +65 67374411
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 10pm
Breakfast: 630am – 1030am
Lunch: 12pm – 230pm
Dinner: 630pm – 1030pm

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]


Thursday, October 16, 2025

Casa Vostra @ JEM - Bringing Its Heartfelt Italian Fare to the West

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If you’ve ever been to Raffles City, chances are you’ve noticed the ever-long snaking queue outside Casa Vostra. The good news for Westies! The beloved Italian eatery has opened its second outlet at JEM, marking a new chapter for fans of its signature pizzas and handmade pastas. The new outlet seats up to 80 guests, approximately 30% more than its Raffles City flagship, offering a more spacious dining experience with outlet-exclusive dishes, a kid-friendly menu, and even some family-friendly activities thrown in.

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Carnivora Pizza 4/5

Exclusive to the JEM outlet, the Carnivora ($28) is a hearty indulgence that will satisfy any meat lover. Built on a San Marzano tomato base, the pizza is topped with creamy Fiordilatte, Mortadella, prosciutto, spicy salame, porchetta, and Pepperone Crusco (a traditional sweet pepper from Italy’s Basilicata region, sun-dried and lightly fried). The result is a beautifully layered pizza that is savoury, smoky, and subtly sweet, with the crispy pepper adding an aromatic crunch.

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Polpette alla Fonduta 3.5/5

Another JEM-exclusive, the Polpette alla Fonduta ($16) features well-seasoned beef meatballs that are fried to a nice crust, paired with a creamy Taleggio fondue that lends a rich, cheesy flavour. While the fondue adds decadence, the dish could use a bit more punch or contrast to balance its heavy notes. For those who enjoy an extra touch of luxury, you can add truffle oil for an additional $10.

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Agnolotti all’Anatra in Brodo 4/5

The Agnolotti all’Anatra in Brodo ($28) showcases Casa Vostra’s finesse with handmade pasta. Each delicate parcel is filled with roasted duck and served in a deeply flavoured consommé made from the same bird. The broth is light yet flavourful, complementing the al dente pasta. It’s a comforting dish that highlights Italian simplicity at its best.

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Coppa al Pistachio 4.5/5

For dessert, the Coppa al Pistachio ($14) is an absolute must-try. The combination of creamy pistachio gelato, crunchy nuts, and fluffy whipped cream makes for a delightful, nutty finale. It’s indulgent yet balanced. It is the kind of dessert you’d happily return for.

Adding to the fun, the JEM outlet also introduces a Casa Claw Machine from 3 Oct to 2 Nov 2025. Spend $100 per table to earn one sure-win play. Prizes include pizza plushies, vouchers for complimentary panna cotta, or iced teas and coffees for your next visit. Fans can also pick up exclusive Casa Vostra Caps ($25) and Cacio e Pepe Thins ($8), available at both Raffles City and JEM while stocks last.

With its larger space, exclusive menu, and playful family-friendly touches, Casa Vostra JEM is set to become a new favourite dining destination for Italian food lovers in the West.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Casa Vostra
JEM
50 Jurong Gateway Road
#01-03
Singapore 608549
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Website
Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

Thursday, July 31, 2025

1-Alfaro by Monti @ Labrador Tower - The Newest Rooftop Lifestyle Destination with Stunning Views

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1-Group has unveiled yet another stunning dining destination with the launch of 1-Alfaro by MONTI, perched on the 34th floor of Labrador Tower. Opened on 2 June 2025, this chic lifestyle enclave brings together two complementary concepts: the refined Italian restaurant La Torre and the high-energy rooftop bar La Luna. With breathtaking panoramic views of the southern coastline and city skyline, 1-Alfaro captures the spirit of Italian hospitality and elegance, inspired by the lighthouses of Emilia-Romagna.

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Our meal began with complimentary Toasted Bread served with Friggione, a traditional slow-cooked onion and tomato dish, reduced until deeply caramelised and jammy. It set a comforting and flavourful tone for the meal.

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Stecco Petroniano 4.2/5

A hit at the table is the Stecco Petroniano ($14 for 2pc). These deep-fried rolls of mortadella and provolone, wrapped in béchamel and double-crumbed, delivered on flavour and texture. The caramelised shallot compote dip added a gentle sweetness that elevated every bite.

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La Torre's Fried Lasagna 4.2/5

A playful and indulgent twist on the classic lasagna is the La Torre's Fried Lasagna ($18 for 5pc). These crispy golden parcels layered with wagyu ragu and cheese are coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. A unique bar snack or starter that delights with every crunch.

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Stracciatella Cheese 4/5

Creamy Stracciatella Cheese ($18) is paired with Parma ham, rosemary honey, and marinated cherry tomatoes, then topped with strips of crispy polenta for textural contrast. It is a well-balanced dish of savoury, sweet, and creamy elements.

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Tortellini 4.2/5

Though petite, these Tortellini ($16) are packed with a flavourful filling of pork, veal, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Floating in a robust chicken consommé, they showcase the finesse of traditional Emilia-Romagna pasta craftsmanship.

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Tagliatelle 4.5/5

An absolute standout is the Tagliatelle ($14 Half/ $28 Full). The beef bolognese, slow-cooked in milk and aromatics, is rich and comforting. Topped with béchamel espuma, Grana Padano, and basil oil, every bite is harmoniously creamy, meaty, and herbaceous.

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Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta 4.2/5

Don’t be fooled by the minimalist presentation. Tossed with tomatoes and squacquerone cheese and finished with shallots, the Fettuccine Flat Egg Pasta ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is deceptively flavourful with a delightfully chewy bite.

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La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna 4.5/5

The La Torre's Pan-Roasted Lasagna ($13 Half/ $26 Full) is a layered beauty of bolognese, béchamel, and mozzarella, baked till bubbling and then pan-fried for a crisp crust. Served with tomato sauce and parmesan cream, this is lasagna with flair and finesse.

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"Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta 4/5

The "Curzoli Romagnoli" Thick Egg Pasta ($14 Half/ $28 Full) is a denser, thicker egg pasta tossed with Manila clams, lemon-parsley butter, and finished with bottarga and breadcrumbs. A punchy, umami-forward dish that might surprise with its chew but rewards with flavour.

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Queensland Baby Barramundi (300-500gram) 4.2/5

Grilled skin-side down over charcoal, the Queensland Baby Barramundi ($38) from Rockypoint Farm offers a clean, sweet, and buttery flavour with firm flakes. Finished with grilled lemon and parsley, it’s simplicity done right.

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USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' 4/5

The USDA Prime Heritage Linz Ribeye on the bone 'Costata' ($148) is charcoal-grilled to perfection. This ribeye is wonderfully marbled and full of natural flavour. The accompaniments – roasted garlic, salsa verde, and sea salt flakes – enhance without overpowering.

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Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes 3.5/5

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Leafy Green from our Garden 3/5

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Wood-Fried US Asparagus 3/5

To complement the mains, we had a trio of sides: Fried Wagyu Fat Potatoes ($16), Leafy Greens from Our Garden ($12), and Wood-Fired US Asparagus ($16). Each was designed to round out the meal, though some stood out more than others.

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La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile 4/5

The La Torre's House-Made Burrata Gelato with Rosemary Tuile ($17) is an intriguing dessert combining the creaminess of burrata with the subtle savoury edge of extra virgin olive oil. The rosemary tuile, Parmigiano shavings, and fig vincotto tie it all together with an elegant complexity.

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Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' 3.8/5

The Italian Trifle 'Zuppa Inglese' ($15) is a classic Italian dessert that features Savoiardi (ladyfinger) biscuits soaked in Herring Cherry Liqueur, layered with vanilla-lemon pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and raspberry gel. Finished with a topping of fresh raspberries and an extra drizzle of raspberry gel, the trifle offers a delightful balance of richness, fruitiness, and a boozy kick.

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Lambrusco Poached Pear 4/5

The Lambrusco Poached Pear ($17) is poached in Lambrusco wine and warm spices. This dessert is comforting and aromatic. The combination of pecan crumbs, pistachio gelato, and aged balsamic adds sophistication and balance.

1-Alfaro by MONTI is a stunning addition to Singapore’s Italian dining scene, impressing with its refined execution of regional favourites, creative presentation, and sweeping skyline views. Whether you’re there for a date night, special celebration, or to indulge in soulful Italian fare, La Torre delivers on both quality and experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


1-Alfaro by Monti
Labrador Tower
1 Pasir Panjang Road
#34-00
Singapore 118479
Tel: +65 8093 5683
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Website
Nearest MRT: Labrador Park (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 1am
Sun: 11am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Labrador Park MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Les Mains Deli @ The URA Centre - Flavourful Protein & Salad Bowls, Fresh Bakes and Gelato

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Les Mains Deli, located on the ground floor of The URA Centre, is a cosy café where you can enjoy protein bowls crafted with a well-curated selection of ingredients. As an extension of Les Mains Bakery, a beloved neighbourhood café in Opera Estate, Les Mains Deli also opens for breakfast, offering a selection of their signature bakes. The space likewise houses their in-house gelato brand, Microcreamery, featuring a range of signature flavours.

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Large Protein Bowl

For the Build-Your-Own Protein Bowl, three sizes are available: Small, Regular, and Large, starting at $9. The Large option includes two bases, two proteins, three supplements, one topping, and one dressing. My wholesome bowl featured Mixed Greens and Bulgur Wheat as the base, paired with Oven-Baked Salmon and Tuna Tataki. For supplements, I chose Butternut Squash with Kale, Pineapple Achar, and a Mayak Egg, topped with a sprinkle of nutty and heady Dukkah and finished with a smoky Chipotle Vinaigrette.

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Bulgur Wheat

The Bulgur Wheat base, reminiscent of a grain salad, was packed with texture and flavour, featuring a blend of grains and pumpkin seeds that lent a nutty depth and aromatic quality.

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Tuna Tataki 4.5/5

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Oven-baked Salmon 3.5/5

Of the proteins, the Tuna Tataki stood out as one of the better renditions I've had. The tuna was beautifully seared on the outside and tender on the inside, retaining the fresh, clean flavour of the tuna. The portion of Oven-baked Salmon was generous, though the leaner parts leaned slightly dry.

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Mayak Egg

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Butternut Squash, Pineapple Achar

The Mayak Egg was a standout, with a golden, runny yolk and a savoury umami punch from its soy-based marinade. The Butternut Squash offered a lovely natural sweetness but could benefit from a longer roast to bring out a softer, starchier texture. Meanwhile, the Pineapple Achar added a tangy acidity and vibrancy, balancing the richness of the proteins. Both vegetarian and vegan-friendly versions are also available.

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Lentil Meatballs 4.5/5

I particularly enjoyed the Lentil Meatballs, which is one of the protein options. They were thoughtfully prepared, not overly seasoned or oily, retaining a rustic mashed-lentil texture with a hearty bite. You can also top up for drinks like fresh fruit juice, kombucha, or coffee.

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Black Sea Salt Croissant 4.5/5

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Shio Pan 3/5

During breakfast hours, freshly baked goods are available alongside their coffee offerings. I tried their signature Black Sea Salt Croissant and Shio Pan. The croissant delivered with a rich, buttery aroma and flavour, complemented by a subtle hit of Black Sea Salt. The Shio Pan had a crisp, crusty exterior and a buttery base, although it could have benefited from a more generous filling of salted butter at its core.

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EVOO Strawberry, Rum & Raisin

Microcreamery, their in-house gelato brand, offers both classic and unconventional flavours. From their original 16-flavour lineup, popular options like EVOO Strawberry, Baileys & Cookies and Pandan Blueberry are available at this outlet. I went with the recommended EVOO Strawberry and a staple Rum & Raisin. The former was delicious, with pockets of tart strawberry puree and a subtle grassy note from the extra-virgin olive oil. The Rum & Raisin was a classic done right. It was indulgent, creamy, and packed with plump, rummy raisins.

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Vanilla Affogato

Off the menu, you can also request your gelato to be served affogato-style for a bitter-sweet dessert or a mid-day perk-me-up.

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Photos and words 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.


Les Mains Deli
The URA Centre
45 Maxwell Road
#01-02
Singapore 069118
Tel: +65 80205596
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am - 7pm
Sat: 8am - 5pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 2. Turn left and walk to Maxwell Road. Turn left on Maxwell Road. Walk down Maxwell Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn lef and walk to Maxwell Road. Cross the road and walk down Maxwell Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]