G Izakaya @ Golden Mile Tower - 1-for-1 8-Course Omakase at $188++

G Izakaya at Golden Mile Tower is once again offering a value-for-money 8-course Omakase at a promotional price of $188++ for two pax. The restaurant has garnered popularity for its seasonal omakase menus, which are offered at attractive prices. We visited in March, but we are back here again for their new menu, which is valid until 31 August.

Chi Ayu 3.8/5

The appetiser course includes two perfectly fried Chi Ayu, known as sweet fish, topped with Ikura. The tempura batter was light and very crispy. The fish reminded us of shishamo, or plumper whitebait, with a hint of sweetness.

Grilled Hokkaido Pork with Shiokoji Dressing 4/5

Next comes the Yakimono, with tender and flavourful pieces of Grilled Hokkaido Pork with Shiokoji Dressing, a type of marinate fermented from rice. The dish was again topped with Ikura, but we found that it didn't elevate it. Perhaps some tempura bits might add some texture to the dish.

Sashimi 3 Kinds 4.2/5

G Izakaya made the usual Sashimi course fun by combining them into a Rubik's cube! The 3 kinds of sashimi consist of Sakura Masu, Hamachi and Tuna, each topped with a sauce on top and coated with a seasoning of sesame seeds and herbs. Chef Edison said there is no right or wrong way to enjoy this dish, but he suggested we eat them individually first to taste. On our last bite, we combined all 3 sashimi, and the flavour was mind-blowing! We highly recommend you keep the last bite combining all.

Lobster Chawanmushi 4.2/5

The chef is generous with the chunks of lobster meat in the Lobster Chawanmushi! Other than the silky-smooth egg custard, a big shout-out to the rich umami broth within. This chawanmushi definitely left us wanting more! Even the flower is edible, but it has a rather bitter aftertaste, so you may leave it aside if you are not a fan of a bitter taste profile. There were also ginkgo nuts at the bottom of the chawanmushi.

Amela Tomato with Ume Jelly 4.2/5

We were served chilled Amela Tomato with Ume Jelly for the palate cleanser course. If you don't know, the Amela tomato is known for being the highest-grade sweet tomato in Japan. What caught us by surprise in this dish was the sliced lotus flower stem. It doesn't have much of a flavour, but the texture is crunchy, like eating apple slices! We have never heard or seen this ingredient, let alone tasting it so Chef Marcus brought it out to show us how it looks.

Madai

Then we have 7 Kinds of Sushi, made with seasonal sashimi, so we get to try the different profiles of fish, and Chef Edison pairs them with different sauces and toppings to enhance the flavours.

Hirame

Akami

Isaki

Shima Aji

Chutoro

Uni Handroll

The star of the show is definitely the Uni Handroll, which comes last. The chef sprays gold dust on it before serving it. If you like to experience this more than once, you may add it for $32++ per piece. They also have an A5 Wagyu Handroll at $25++, which is not included.

Pumpkin Fish Soup with Fish Curd 4.5/5

At an omakase, we are typically served miso soup, but G Izakaya levelled up the soup course for us by serving Pumpkin Fish Soup with Fish Curd. The soup is a flavour bomb, and despite its thicker consistency, it is very light! The fish curd is house-made using fish paste and egg. Its texture resembles a 'tau pok' (beancurd puff).

Melon and Cheesecake 3.8/5

Sweet Japanese Melon and Cheesecake were served as the dessert course, along with a cute free-hand drawing by another chef. The couple beside us was celebrating a birthday, and the restaurant was lovely to present them with a slice of cake with a birthday message written on the plate. Be sure to let the chefs know if you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary.

Overall, we really enjoyed the Omakase experience at G Izakaya. The intimate setting is very welcoming and most importantly, the food was great. Seats are limited so make sure to make reservations in advance. For dinner, they have 2 seatings at 6pm and 8pm.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


G Izakaya
Golden Mile Tower
6001 Beach Road
#01-52A/B
Singapore 199589
Tel: +65 91835393
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1130am - 130pm, 530pm - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge to Beach Road. Turn right onto Beach Road and walk down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Stella Seaside Lounge @ NSRCC Sea Sports Centre - Chill Beach Retreat with Sea Breeze, Cocktails and Grilled Platters

Entering Stella Seaside Lounge feels like a tropical escape reminiscent of Bali. The restaurant offers unobstructed views of the beautiful sea, complemented by swaying coconut trees and the soft glow of dim light bulbs. This laid-back eatery is located at Changi Coastal Walk and provides a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

With its coastal vantage point, Stella Seaside Lounge invites patrons to enjoy a serene atmosphere while indulging in burgers, grills, and cocktails. The outdoor seating and glimpses of the sea create a beachside retreat, making it the perfect place to relax and relish a delightful meal.

Beautiful To Sea 4.2/5, Dirty Little Pina Colada 4.2/5, Seaside Sangria 4/5

To kick off our dining experience, we indulged in some expertly crafted cocktails while savouring the gorgeous sea view. The "Beautiful To Sea" cocktail ($21/glass) combines vodka, kyoho grape liqueur, lemon juice, sugar, and lychee, creating a refreshing and fruity concoction. For those seeking a tropical twist, the "Dirty Little Pina Colada" ($23/glass) presents a delightful mix of dark rum, honey pineapple juice, vanilla sugar, and coconut cream. Lastly, the "Seaside Sangria" ($16/glass) is a vibrant ensemble of white wine, rum, peach liqueur, orange juice, green apple, and strawberries, promising a perfect harmony of flavours to complement the seaside ambience.

Seasonal Live Oysters 3.8/5

We tried their Seasonal Live Oysters, available in a set of six units, with each oyster expertly shucked upon ordering. The selection of oysters varies daily, ensuring a fresh and dynamic assortment for patrons.

Lemongrass Wings 4/5

We tried the Lemongrass Wings ($16/6pcs), a tempting offering of six deep-fried chicken wings marinated with lemongrass. The infusion of lemongrass imparts a fragrant and citrusy note to the wings, creating a unique and aromatic experience. To elevate the taste, these delectable wings are served with a homemade spicy dip, adding an extra kick to every bite.

Butter Garlic Prawns 4/5

A recommended starter was the Butter Garlic Prawns ($22), which features head-on prawns cooked to perfection in a flavourful garlic and butter broth. Served alongside crispy sourdough toast, this dish promises a harmonious blend of succulent prawns and the rich, aromatic essence of garlic and butter.

Grilled Pork Skewers 4.2/5

Our favourite is the Grilled Pork Skewers ($16/6pcs), which features marinated pork skewers and a delectable homemade spicy dip. The succulent pork, grilled to perfection, is complemented by the tantalising heat and zest of the spicy dip.

Seasonal Squid 4.2/5

Elevate your dining experience with the must-try Seasonal Squid ($22). The squid is expertly pan-seared to perfection, showcasing its seasonal freshness. Served with a homemade spicy dip to add an extra layer of flavour to the dish.

Seafood Linguine 3.8/5

We tried the Seafood Linguine ($18), a delectable pasta dish with a rich and cheesy base and a medley of succulent prawns, clams, and squid. Topped with crispy herbed bread crumbs, the linguine was perfectly cooked to al dente, adding a satisfying texture to the overall dish.

Smashed Beef Burger 4.2/5

The Smashed Beef Burger ($24) features double smashed beef patties, complemented by homemade sauce, onions, and cheddar cheese. This flavourful ensemble is served alongside a generous portion of fries.

Beer Battered Fish on Chips 3.5/5

The Beer Battered Fish on Chips ($18) offers a delightful combination of tangy beer-battered Humpty Doo barramundi slices served with a side of crispy fries and mayo, creating a delicious and satisfying dish.

Fisherman’s Tray 4.5/5

The Fisherman’s Tray ($170), available exclusively from Friday to Sunday, is a delightful sharing platter that features a whole lobster, seasonal live whole fish, and clams bathed in a flavorful cajun sauce. This sumptuous seafood ensemble is complemented by a selection of assorted vegetables, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a variety of ocean-fresh delights.

Photos and words 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.


Stella Seaside Lounge
NSRCC Sea Sports Centre
11 Changi Coast Walk
Singapore 499740
Tel: +65 6214 9168
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Nearest MRT: Tanah Merah (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 4pm -10pm
Sat-Sun, PH: 12pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanah Merah MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tanah Merah MRT station (Stop ID 85091). Take bus number 35. Alight 6 stops later at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal. Walk to Tanah Merah Coast Road. Turn left and walk down Tanah Merah Coast Road. Turn right onto Changi Coast Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 45 minutes. [Map]

Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ @ Northpoint - Launches Singapore’s First Ever Hangari Dry-Aged Meat

Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ is renowned for being the first restaurant in Singapore to offer the exclusive Korean galmaegisal, a premium pork skirt meat. This delicacy, once reserved for Korean royalty, has become a favourite among Korean food enthusiasts. First conceptualised in Seorae village, South Korea, it has grown into the leading Korean BBQ chain and cemented its reputation as a rare pork-cut specialist, with over 300 outlets established globally. Seorae has since expanded to 6 outlets in Singapore, with its newest outlet in Northpoint City. They are dedicated to presenting the authentic flavours of Korean BBQ and traditional cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Korea's culinary heritage.

Hangari Dry-Aged Pork Belly 4.5/5

Seorae's latest addition to their Signature Collection is the Hangari Dry-Aged Pork Belly ($32/200g), a culinary masterpiece aged in traditional Korean Hangari pots with a proprietary blend of three essences. This careful ageing process in a controlled 3-degree chill chamber produces a uniquely flavourful and tender pork belly cut. It promises a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is a true indulgence for the senses. To elevate the experience further, this exquisite dish complements exceptionally well with a side of sambal kimchi onion, adding a delightful hint of spice and complexity to the rich flavours of the dry-aged pork belly. Make a classic lettuce wrap by placing a piece of pork belly within a lettuce leaf and topping it with the sambal kimchi onion.

Pork Skirt 4.2/5

Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ's signature dish, the Pork Skirt ($23.90), is a rare and exclusive delicacy as only 250 grams of this premium pork skirt meat can be sourced from a full-grown pig. The meat undergoes a meticulous 30-minute marination process using Seorae's authentic Korean spices, resulting in a juicy and flavourful experience. What sets this dish apart is its remarkable flavour profile, with all the succulence you'd desire from pork while being notably leaner, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a delectable and indulgent yet less fatty meat option.

Iberico Black Pork Tasting Platter 4/5

The Iberico Black Pork Tasting Platter ($68/350g) at Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ introduces diners to the exquisite flavours of Iberico black pork from Spain. This exceptional tasting platter showcases a carefully curated selection of premium cuts, totalling 350 grams of succulent Iberico pork per serving. It offers a unique opportunity to savour each distinct cut, allowing you to explore the nuances of this exceptional pork variety: Abanico, Rib Finger, Skirt Meat, Jowl and Pork Tongue. The Rib Finger meat is known for its juicy and well-marbled qualities, delivering a delightful combination of tenderness and flavour. The Pork jowl is exceptionally tender and showcases a luxurious fattiness that adds depth and succulence to every bite. Our favourite is the Abanico, which is delicate and beautifully marbled, offering a rich and buttery flavour.

Watermelon Soju 4/5

The Watermelon Soju at Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ is a refreshing and visually captivating beverage served inside a hollowed-out watermelon with balls of watermelon meat. This delightful drink combines fresh watermelon juice with soju, offering a perfect balance of natural sweetness and a mild alcoholic kick. It serves as a palate cleanser and pairs excellently with the restaurant's grilled meats.

Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ also offers a tempting array of free-flow sides such as kimchi, potato macaroni salad and braised pumpkin that perfectly complement the main barbecue dishes.

Photos and words 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.


Seorae Korean Charcoal BBQ
Northpoint City
North Wing
930 Yishun Ave 2
#B1-37
Singapore 769098
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Nearest MRT: Yishun (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 10pm

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

Sawa De' Kafe @ Chinatown - Offering both Traditional Thai Dishes And Fusion Plates

Sawa De'Kafe on Temple Street is a modern Thai bistro cafe that offers a delightful combination of well-loved Thai classics and fusion plates enriched with Thai flavours. The founders, Mr. David and his Thai wife from Chiang Rai, were former chefs during their time studying in Japan, where Japanese Western-style cafes are common and popular. Drawing inspiration from these fusion cafes, Mr David aims to offer diners a different way to enjoy Thai cuisine by creating Western-style dishes infused with Thai flavours alongside the classics, all within a cosy and comfortable environment. Overseeing the kitchen is his wife's ensuring the most authentic Thai flavours reach every table.

Mango Salad 4.8/5

Papaya Salad 4.8/5

I had the Papaya Salad ($7) and the Mango Salad ($7). Both dishes whetted my appetite with the utmost amount of peanuts and dried shrimp tossed into the shredded fruits, all brought to life with piquant Northern Thai-style sauce.

Kor Moo Yang 3.8/5

Kor Moo Yang ($15) features slices of grilled pork collar. While they weren't as tender as expected, they were quite delectable despite the visibly good amount of fats present, especially when paired with the dipping sauce.

Red Coconut Curry 5/5

Red Coconut Curry ($15) with Prawn is a dish that's impossible to discuss without salivating. It's robust and vibrant, packed with aromatics and spices. Staying true to its café concept, besides rice and glutinous rice, diners have the option to add on a Butter Croissant ($3.50) to soak up the irresistibly moreish curry. This pairing draws inspiration from the way we savour chilli crab with fried mantou.

Tom Yum Spaghetti 4/5

The menu offers a diverse range of pasta dishes infused with Thai flavours, including Green Curry, Red Curry Prawns, Basil Pork, and even Phad Thai with Spaghetti. I had the Tom Yum Spaghetti ($17). Brimming with seafood ingredients, the al dente spaghetti was zingy with a well-executed Tom Yum sauce. While most Tom Yum sauces out there tend to be relatively rich and creamy, the version here had a lighter consistency, which was much more elegant, and the heat level was just right. I particularly appreciate its bright and citrusy notes, which elevated the dish's overall taste.

Vegetarian Green Curry 3/5

Catering to the increasing demand for meatless options, most curries and pasta dishes have vegetarian alternatives. I opted for the Vegetarian Green Curry ($13), which included Konjac prawns, tofu, and brinjal. It's worth noting that a greater variety of vegetables would have been more complementary to the robust curry.

Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea, Red Ruby, Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake

Other than Thai desserts, there is also a range of cakes which one can enjoy with Thai beverages or coffees. Red Ruby with Jackfruit ($6) was rather average. I recommend the Green Tea Butterfly Pea Basque Cheesecake ($6), which is homemade by one of the couple's daughters and one of the best cheesecakes I have had for a long time. It was light and mildly sweet with a hint of lemony note, laced with an alluring tea fragrance. Its light bluish-green colour was aesthetically pleasing and tasted as elegant as it looked. Ice Hale's Butterfly Pea Tea ($6) was pretty with Thai pink milk, which was refreshing after all the spicy dishes.

High Tea sets are also available if you want to try more of their desserts and cakes. As Sawa De'Kafe is still relatively new, it will be adding more Western fusion dishes to the menu in the future.

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.


Sawa De'Kafe
30 Temple Street
#01-01
Singapore 058575
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon, Wed: 11am - 9pm
Fri-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Pagoda Street. Turn right onto Trengganu Street. Walk down Trengganu Street and turn left onto Temple Street. Walk down Temple Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

OMMA Korean Charcoal BBQ @ Cheong Chin Nam Road (Bukit Timah) - Singapore's First Wood-Fire Korean Charcoal BBQ's 2nd Outlet

OMMA Korean Charcoal BBQ has recently opened its second outlet at Bukit Timah. Pride itself on being Singapore’s first wood-fire Korean Charcoal BBQ. Selecting natural wood charcoal that burns smokelessly, diners get to choose from five types of carefully selected wood to enhance the flavours of the ingredients.

You have 5 options of wood to choose from: Applewood, Cherry, Pecan, Hickory and Jarrah. Opt for any to cook your meal for only $3 per 30g. We started with Hickory Firewood ($3/30g), specially selected to go with the Japan A4 Grade Beef Ribeye ($81/180g). Hickory is meant to cut through the fattiness of meats to cook with punchy smokiness thoroughly. With such a high-quality piece of meat, it was such an experience to be able to barbecue it using real firewood.

For variety, a recommended item will be the Special Beef and Pork Set ($105). The set includes Iberico Pork Collar, Pork Belly, Beef Ribs, Beef Striploin, Steam Egg, Kimchi Soup and Side Dishes.

We continued with the beef before switching the Hickory Firewood to Apple Firewood as we moved on to the pork. The smell of the burning Apple firewood was extremely alluring, adding a wonderful aroma to the meats.

The accompanying piquant kimchi soup, steamed egg, and side dishes are ideal fillers in between bites to complement the meats or while waiting for them to be done.

With over 60 ala carte options starting from $8.80 and set menus from $49, there is also fresh seafood such as prawns, mussels and even oysters.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


OMMA Korean Charcoal BBQ
20 Cheong Chin Nam Road
Singapore 599744
Tel: +65 65139553
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Nearest MRT: Beauty World (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am to 1130pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Beauty World MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk straight to Cheong Chin Nam Road. Walk down Cheong Chin Nam Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]