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

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Tom’s Palette @ Bugis - OG Gelato Cafe with Rotating Selection of 36 Creative Flavours Reopens After Renovation

IMG_4427

I have been a longtime fan of Tom's Palette ever since they have been serving their gelato in Shaw Tower, Bugis. Their journey started in 2005, with a heart of serving fresh, quality and unorthodox gelato flavours - I always loved peeking into their kitchen and observing the staff working on their gelato!

IMG_4428

After Shaw Tower closed, Tom's Palette shifted a few minutes walk down to their current location on Middle Road for a while before recently embarking on renovations and unveiling this new, vibrant, modern look.

IMG_4431

The cafe's philosophy in its offerings has stayed true, with an impressive growing library of over 200 flavours featuring classic and unconventional creations, all made in-house using the finest ingredients.

IMG_4430

At any one time, there will be a diverse selection of 36 flavours to choose from. You'll definitely be spoilt for choice, and I'm sure you can find something you like.

IMG_4425
Tom’s Palette 4.5/5

Alongside its cosy new space, there are also new items on the menu. The Tom's Palette ($29.80) is excellent for sharing, consisting of six flavours that change daily, depending on the selection available.

Featured here are the Wild Strawberry Balsamic, Tiramisu, Lychee, Pistachio, White Chocolate Nori and my ultimate Tom's Palette favourite of all time - the Parmigiano Reggiano & Crackers. Once in a while, I would purchase it in tubs to enjoy at home!

IMG_4426
Belgian Waffles 4/5

The cafe's Belgian Waffles ($7.50) now come with a topping of the day (ours was you tiao) and free-flow gula melaka that is available self-service at the counter. You can also add a small maple syrup pitcher at $1.70. I don't know if they have changed their waffle batter recipe, but it fared better than when I last had it. The inner texture is more cake-like, with a slight crisp outside.

IMG_4424
Maple Pecan Gelato 4.2/5

The third and final new addition is the Maple Pecan Gelato ($5.20 for Single Cup/ $6.40 for Cone). It's made with a base of Fior di Latte (milk) gelato and generously studded with crunchy toasted pecans and pound cake soaked in pure maple syrup.

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.


Tom’s Palette
51 Middle Road
#01-01
Singapore 188959
Tel: +65 6977 9749
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C or D. Walk to North Bridge Road. Walk down North Bridge Road towards the traffic junction of Middle Road and North Bridge Road. At the traffic junction, turn left and walk down Middle Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]



Monday, October 2, 2023

The Social Outcast @ East Coast Road (Joo Chiat) - Omakase Experiential Dining Hidden in a Mexican Grocer

TheSocialOutcast5

Nestled discreetly behind The Madman & Co, a Mexican grocer, lies The Social Outcast - an intimate omakase haven boasting 12 counter-seats. Offering 5, 7, and 10-course omakase menus for lunch and dinner, this unassuming eatery beckons diners into a world of woodfire, smoke, and charcoal-grilled delights from across the globe.

TheSocialOutcast4
Lobster Consomme 4.2/5

The 7-course Omakase Experiential Dining ($138++) commenced with Lobster Consomme, featuring a whole lobster meticulously grilled over charcoal. This exquisite crustacean immersed itself in a pool of sweet, revitalizing consomme. The lobster's charred essence gracefully infused the consomme, adding an alluring smoky undertone.

TheSocialOutcast7
Eggs on Eggs 4.2/5

Our adventure segued into "Eggs on Eggs" - a reinterpretation of Chawanmushi. This velvety delight harmonised four egg varieties: chicken, century, ikura, and urchin. The addition of century egg elevated the flavour and introduced a tantalising textural contrast atop the silky egg custard.

TheSocialOutcast10
Japanese Wagyu 3.8/5

Japanese Wagyu, a short rib cut featuring a marbling score of 12, followed suit. The pristine cut received a gentle kiss from the fire on one side, seasoned with a delicate touch of pepper. A marinated egg yolk was served alongside, intended to be a luscious steak sauce. Regrettably, the yolk's excessive saltiness somewhat disrupted the delicate equilibrium needed to fully savour this exceptional Wagyu.

TheSocialOutcast14
Tea Pairing 4/5

Amidst the richness of our preceding courses, a fragrant bowl of tea acted as the perfect intermission, cleansing our palates and preparing us for the delectable courses yet to come.

TheSocialOutcast21
Sate Lilit 4/5

Sate Lilit Bali was our subsequent encounter, featuring minced meat skewered on fragrant lemongrass sticks and expertly grilled. This cooking technique imparted a tantalising lemongrass aroma. Served alongside were freshly cut green and red chillies, bathed in fragrant coconut oil, adding an extra layer of aroma and flavour.

TheSocialOutcast25
Oyster 4/5

I indulged in Oyster paired with ikura and shark cartilage for the seafood offering. A novel combination, the shark cartilage introduced a delightful textural dimension akin to soft bones, perfectly complementing the tender oysters.

TheSocialOutcast31
Congee 4/5

Inspired by Northern Thai cuisine, the Congee arrived infused with the spicy and tangy essence of tom yum, customisable to preferred spice levels. Jamaican Jerk chicken accompanied this congee and was a complete, soul-warming meal. A drizzle of lobster oil added a robust flourish to this comforting dish.

TheSocialOutcast34
Gelato 4/5

Our culinary journey culminated in Gelato, featuring vanilla ice cream drizzled with olive oil and adorned with lumpfish caviar. This dessert skillfully harmonised sweet and savoury elements, providing a delightful conclusion to our epicurean exploration.

Additionally, The Social Outcast offers a tantalizing Wagyu Experiential Dining experience on weekends. This indulgent affair comprises 9 exquisite cuts of Wagyu, paired with a playful DIY Sando experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Social Outcast
89 East Coast Road
#01-01
Singapore 428790
Tel: +65 8923 8924
Facebook
Instagram
Website
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 12pm, 130pm, 6pm, 8pm
Sat-Sun: 12pm, 130pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm
(Closed on Mon & Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 10 or 32. Alight 6 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, October 4, 2022

JIDAI Restaurant @ Circular Road - Enjoy An Affordable 8 Course French Japanese Omakase

Photo 1-10-22, 12 15 10 PM

Located along Circular Road, the new 30-seater Izakaya restaurant JIDAI Restaurant specialises in Japanese-French Fusion dishes. Helmed by Chef Darwin Wong, JIDAI has recently launched an 8-Course Omakase dining experience at $88/pax.

Photo 1-10-22, 12 19 54 PM
Chile Uni 3.5/5

We began the omakase with a starter of Chile Uni with caviar and deep sea crab miso wrapped with crunchy green onions. However, we felt there was too much caviar on the uni, and together with the green onions, the uni taste was barely detectable in the wrap.

Photo 1-10-22, 12 27 01 PM
Botan Ebi and Sea Bream 4/5

Next, we had the fresh sashimi with Botan Ebi and Sea Bream.

Photo 1-10-22, 12 39 52 PM
Ponzu Sea Whelk 3.5/5

The Ponzu Sea Whelk, serrved on a bed of sea whelk shells, has a nice chewy texture. Best paired with the fermented mushroom sauce provided.

Photo 1-10-22, 12 49 31 PM
Engawa 3.8/5

The next poached dish is Engawa, with a thick cauliflower puree and red lumpfish caviar. We enjoyed the tender Engawa slice, though we felt that the cauliflower puree could be more flavourful.

Photo 1-10-22, 1 02 18 PM
Soup 3.8/5

A flavourful onion beef dashi is poured over the A5 Wagyu slices and mushrooms. We enjoyed the richness of the dashi used, though it was a tad salty for our liking.

Photo 1-10-22, 1 17 51 PM
Miso Atlantic Cod 4.2/5

As for the mains, you can take your pick of Miso Atlantic Cod or Lobster Charzuke at a supplement of $18. We had the former, which features Miso Atlantic Cod grilled and doused with an umami caviar creme, topped with ikura and paired with perfectly charred broccolini.

Photo 1-10-22, 1 36 14 PM
Mini Cones Chous Chous 4/5

For desserts, we had the Mini Cones Chous Chous. It is filled with crunchy chocolate ganache and was small enough to be eaten in a bite. It is a simple sweet treat towards the end of the meal.

Photo 1-10-22, 1 37 22 PM
Champagne Gelato 4/5

We ended the omakase on a sweet note with the Champagne Gelato, which comes with sake jello and crisps. It was sweet with a nice champagne flavour, a refreshing course after all the heavy-tasting dishes.

Photo 1-10-22, 12 17 54 PM

Diners can also elevate their dining experience with an alcohol pairing of Junmai Daiginjo at ($88/bottle). You can go even fancier with the 10-course omakase ($108++), but for something more affordable, they also serve ala carte dishes and set lunch menu.

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.


[CLOSED]
JIDAI Restaurant
9 Circular Rd
Singapore 049365
Tel: +65 81891849
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 5pm - 1030pm
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Cross the road. Walk to Upper Circular Road. Walk down the road to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Circular Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Monte Risaia @ Duxton - A Contemporary Italian-Japanese Omakase Experience

IMG_8609

Monte Risaia is a contemporary Italian-Japanese Omakase restaurant located on Duxton Road, helmed by Chef Taizo Yamada, whose forte lies in Japanese-inspired Italian cuisine prepared using premium and seasonal ingredients from Japan. We had a $98 Omakase Course consisting of 2 antipasti, 1 pasta, 1 meat and a dessert.

IMG_8584
Wagyu Ham with Burrata Cheese 5/5

The first appetiser was Wagyu Ham with Burrata Cheese, whose rich mouthfeel and luscious texture bowled me over. The fats of the wagyu ham bind the ham and the cheese together as it melts away, with shredded parmesan cheese lending some sharp saltiness to the dish. I'm genuinely surprised by how well these ingredients harmonise with one another.

IMG_8594
Lobster Bisque Cartoccio Style 4.8/5

The 2nd appetiser did not disappoint as well. The Lobster Bisque Cartoccio Style was rich and intensely flavoured, but it wasn't overly creamy or buttery.

IMG_8596
Japanese Chiayu Confit 3/5

The 3rd appetiser is a seasonal dish - Japanese Chiayu Confit. I didn't quite know how to approach this dish as there wasn't any side dish I could use with the flavoured oil. The Chiayu had a hint of bitterness, but it wasn't unpleasant. Interestingly, that bitter nuance brought out the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes.

IMG_8614
Signature Triple Dashi with Shiso Leaves Pasta 4/5

Chef Taizo's pasta left an impression when I had it a couple of years back. I love the addition of shiso leaves that permeates the pasta with this distinctive herbaceous scent and the intensity of the tomato pasta sauce. The Signature Triple Dashi with Shiso Leaves Pasta (hamaguri dashi, Kani dashi, konbu dashi) was just as delicious this time round.

IMG_8619
Roasted Beef Tenderloin 4/5

For main, we had Roasted Beef Tenderloin. The meat was simply prepared, but Chef Taizo layered it with small touches of ingredients such as horseradish, parmesan cheese, balsamic and tomato sauce, seasoning the meat with tiny bursts of acidity, sweetness and some sharp saltiness. Even bits of chicken soft bones were added to give it a textural crunch.

IMG_8630
Genmaicha Gelato 4/5

Dessert was a refreshing Genmaicha Gelato, which I thought was a deviation from the usual Matcha ice cream. There were even bits of roasted brown rice that had become chewy in its current form, giving an additional texture to the ice cream.

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Monte Risaia
59 Duxton Road
Singapore 089523
Tel: +65 69700067
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm – 230pm, 5pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk towards Orchid Hotel. Walk to Tanjong Pagar Road, cross the road. Walk to Craig Road. Turn left onto Craig Road. Walk down Craig Road. Turn right onto Duxton Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Turn left and walk to Neil Road. Cross the road. Walk to Duxton Road. Walk down Duxton Road. WAlk to destinaton. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Monday, February 21, 2022

GelatiAmo @ Connexis Tower, Fusionpolis - Authentic Italian Gelato By Chef Loris Massimini Of Ristorante Pietrasanta

GelatiAmoOneNorth1

GelatiAmo is a new gelato cafe brought to you by Chef Loris of Ristorante Pietrasanta. Each day, the gelato is churned in a special combi gelato machine from Italy. GelatiAmo's gelato is made without any shortcuts that compromise its integrity, using time-honed techniques and quality ingredients to produce the ideal gelato texture.

GelatiAmoOneNorth13

Instead of trendy flavours, GelatiAmo focuses on timeless, classic flavours done right. On top of that, it will also introduce store speciality that can't find elsewhere in Singapore. Each scoop is priced at $4.20, while double scoop at $7.80 with an extra $0.80 charge per scoop for premium flavours. An additional $1 for the cone instead of the cup.

GelatiAmoOneNorth24

Classic flavours include Vanilla, Salted Caramel, Chocolate (made with 76% cacao), Earl Grey, Coconut with Choco Chip, Yogurt Strawberry, Ferrero Rocher, Pistachio and Melted Butter Coffee.

GelatiAmoOneNorth14

The store speciality comprises the Burrata Balsamico, inspired by the popular cheesecake at Ristorante Pietrasanta. It uses the same 12 Year Old Giuseppe Giusti Balsamic Vinegar for the gelato flavour. In addition, customers can look forward to seasonal rotation such as Champagne Grapefruit, Almond and Turmeric, and Grapefruit sorbet.

GelatiAmoOneNorth25

GelatiAmoOneNorth9

Besides having the gelato on its own, customers can choose to serve in Brioche, Square Cinnamon-coated Doughnuts and Waffle.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


GelatiAmo
Connexis
1 Fusionopolis Way
#B1-11
Singapore 138632
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 830pm
Sun: 2pm - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at One North MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, December 19, 2021

Three Point Two @ Kampong Bahru - Introducing New Durian Delights, Gelato Bun And Craqueline Puffs

ThreePointTwo1

Three Point Two at Kampong Bahru is a gelato cafe that offers a range of specially crafted durian delights for durian aficionados. This cafe is the founders' second outlet, following their successful venture Pang Zi Durian at Jurong West. As durian sellers themselves, one can be assured of the quality of durians used in their ice cream and sweet treats.

ThreePointTwo3

First-timers visiting Three Point Two may go for Four Heavenly Kings ($16.80), showcasing two D24 Durian Puffs, two MSW Craquelin Puff, two Durian Mochi and one Durian Mousse. Their Durian Mousse ($5.50, additional D24 shot +$1) made quite an impression during my very first visit to Pang Zi Durian. I love the bittersweet dollop of D24 shot atop the mousse, and its sweetness level was quite on point.

ThreePointTwo12

The Durian Puffs are like choux pastry. The lightly crisp exterior that comes with an elevated buttery taste complemented the durian mousse. However, for the durian filling, I would prefer more flesh in it for better textural contrast.

ThreePointTwo13

The Mochi was all right. The highlight goes to the MSW Craquelin Puff that has a very indulgent buttery, sugary crust.

ThreePointTwo17

ThreePointTwo24

Waffle is also on the menu to pair with your gelatos. However, for a more interesting experience, or even a more delicious one, in my opinion, go for its Gelato Bun ($4). It is like a blown-up version of the Craquelin Puff that gives twice the pleasure of eating it. We had ours with Pistachio gelato, seemingly quite popular among its regulars.

ThreePointTwoInterior-3

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. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Three Point Two
85 Kampong Bahru Road
Singapore 169380
Tel: +65 83669952
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Outram Park (NE Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun: 12pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 2am

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to New Bridge Road. Left turn and walk down New Bridge Road. Continue onto Kampong Bahru Road. Walk to the row of shophouses along Kampong Bahru Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Sunday, October 31, 2021

Da Paolo Gastronomia @ Great World - Latest Addition Centred On An Expanded All-Day Dining And Retail Offering Within An Immersive Setting

DaPaoloInterior-1

Da Paolo Gastronomia at Great World is the latest and the eighth gastronomia concept of the group. The concept offers all-day dining and a full retail selection. Customers at the new outlet can dine, purchase a takeaway or shop for pantry essentials.

DaPaolo1
Balanced Bowl 4/5

From the Greens and Grains section, customers can customise their bowl from a selection of grains, proteins and vegetables. There is plenty of plant-based, dairy-free, and gluten-free option to choose from too. A Balanced Bowl ($13.90) comes with two grains & bases, one protein, two vegetables and one dollop. For the meat-lover, the Protein Plus Bowl ($16) comes with an extra protein selection. My balanced bowl comprises summer barley salad, Moroccan Chicken Thigh, Shredded Brussels Sprouts, Turnip & Cranberry Salad, Kale, Broccoli Stems & Beetroot Salad and Vegan Chickpea Hummus.

DaPaolo4
Salami & Sundried Tomatoes Panini 4.8/5

A must-have is the hearty Salami & Sundried Tomatoes Panini ($18). The freshly baked focaccia is generously packed with salami, sundried tomato mayonnaise, caramelised onions and provolone. It is also grilled to a delightful crisp. The customer has a choice of fries, salad or truffle fries for the accompanying side.

DaPaolo12
Rucola e Crudo 4.2/5

From the pizza bar, we tried the Rucola e Crudo ($28). The freshly stone-baked Roman thin crust pizza is topped with 24-month old Parma ham, locally grown rocket leaves, shaved parmesan and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil

DaPaolo15
Spaghettone Carbonara Calabrese 4.5/5

The Spaghettone Carbonara Calabrese ($25) may look simple, but it is packed with flavours. The al dente spaghetti is buried in a pool of spicy Calabrian pork salami (Nduja) cream-based sauce, topped with grated pecorino.

DaPaolo19
Gelato 4/5

For dessert, customers can go for the house churned Gelato made freshly daily. We had the pistachio, salted caramel and dark chocolate. The flavours are not really exciting but classic. They are rich, dense and creamy. 

DaPaoloInterior-3

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Da Paolo Gastronomia
Great World
1 Kim Seng Promenade
#01-163
Singapore 237994
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 8am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 2. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]