27 Mezze Bar and Grill @ Robertson Quay - Singapore's first Contemporary Turkish Restaurant by a Turkish Couple Who Runs a Top-Rated Restaurant in Turkey

27 Mezze Bar and Grill, located in the cosy enclave of Robertson Quay, is Singapore's first contemporary Turkish restaurant. Opened by a Turkish couple who also runs a top-rated restaurant in Turkey, the kitchen is led by experienced executives and Head Chefs who have honed their skills in some of Istanbul's and overseas finest establishments. The name '27' reflects their passion for food culture, which led to a well-curated menu of 27 dishes showcasing Turkey's rich culinary heritage across its seven regions, all with a contemporary touch. Authentic Anatolian flavours are achieved using herbs and spices sourced directly from Turkey, complemented by selected alcohol and local drinks.

Mezze Platter 5/5

We began our dinner with an impressive Mezze Platter, one of the best I've experienced. Even common choices like Babagannuş and Hummus were elevated in flavour and texture.

Babagannuş

Hummus

The Babagannuş featured a finishing touch of sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for a nutty crunch. The Hummus was enhanced with black currants and pomegranates for sweet contrast and texture pops.

Girit Ezme

Do try Girit Ezme, made with sharp and salty white "Ezine" cheese (sheep and cow), balanced with creamy "Kaymak" Lor cheese, similar to ricotta, blended with basil, garlic, and pistachio.

Muhammara

Fava Tekmil

Both the Fava Tekmil and Muhammara were delectable. The Fava Tekil, made with pureed broad beans, was brilliantly nuanced with aromatic dill and red onion. Equally well thought-out was the Muhammara, which appeared to be a regular roasted red pepper dip but elevated with walnuts for a nutty flavour and textural play.

Kopoglu

The Kopoglu was also a highlight. It was a tasty mix of fried eggplant and tomato with contrasting creamy and refreshing cold garlic yoghurt.

(tasting portion) Mucver 5/5

(tasting portion) Hellim & Sucuk 4.5/5

For appetisers - we had Mücver, zucchini fritters with white "Ezine" cheese, served with creamy salted yoghurt, which was deliciously crispy on the outside and soft inside. The Hellim & Sucuk featured charcoal-grilled cured "Turkish" beef sausage and halloumi cheese, served with Turkish cucumber "Ankara Çubuk" pickle and pita bread, making it a highly flavorful dish ideal for pairing with a drink.

(tasting portion) Dana Şaşlık 4.5/5

(tasting portion) Tavuk Şiş 4.8/5

For the mains, they were prepared in a charcoal barbecue way. We tried the sirloin, chicken thigh, hand-minced lamb kebab, and lamb shoulder. The Dana Şaşlık, a 24-hour marinated sirloin, had a very delectable tender texture, a flavour accented with aromatic herbs, and a hint of smokiness from the charred ends. I reckon slightly less salty would be perfect. The Tavuk Şiş, a 24-hour marinated chicken thigh, was equally tender and more spice-forward with a distinct marination.

Kuzu Tandir 4/5

Tire Kebap 4.2/5

Between the Kuzu Tandir, a weekend special of seven-hour slow-roasted boneless lamb shoulder, and the Tire Kebap, I preferred the latter for its flavour combination. Tire Kebap is hand-minced lamb meatballs paired with a complementary tomato puree and smoked yogurt, finished with an indulgent dose of beurre noisette. I prefer an even more robust tomato puree. The lamb shoulder would be ideal if you are into a gamier taste.

Turkish coffee, Baklava

The dessert was simple but still delightful - Turkish coffee was served with a piece of Turkish Delight and Baklava. As my dining companion noted, it transported her back to Turkey, reminiscing about enjoying the same treat while overlooking the coast during her travels.

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.


27 Mezze Bar and Grill
Village Residence Robertson Quay
30 Robertson Quay
#01-02A
Singapore 238251
Tel: +65 9227 9086
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 5pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 5pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Bites & Brews @ Joo Chiat - A Delightful Addition to the Charming Neighbourhood

Nestled in the charming Joo Chiat neighbourhood, Bites & Brews offers a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere perfect for enjoying a variety of brunch favourites and crowd-pleasing dinner selections.

Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread 4.2/5

We began our meal with the Gold & Purple Hummus with Za'atar Flat Bread ($18). The flatbread was soft and fluffy and infused with the aromatic flavours of za'atar, making it delightful even on its own. The experience was further elevated by the accompanying hummus, honey, and harissa roasted eggplant, which provided multiple dimensions and ways to enjoy this appetiser.

Lemongrass Steak Salad 4.2/5

The Lemongrass Steak Salad ($25) was substantial enough to serve as a meal on its own. The plate was a vibrant mix of watercress, edamame, quinoa, cherry tomatoes, pumpkin, water chestnuts, and pomegranate, all tossed in a light and appetising Asian dressing. This salad offered a satisfying and hearty meal topped with beautifully grilled, tender steak.

Mapo Tofu Lasagna 4.5/5

The Mapo Tofu Lasagna ($21) showcased Bites & Brews' innovative approach to fusion cuisine. This dish replaces the traditional ground meat with Sichuan meat and tofu ragu, creating a more piquant and exciting flavour profile amidst the layers of pasta sheets. It's a brilliant twist that adds a spicy kick to a classic Italian favourite.

Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper 3/5

However, the Spicy "Pina Colada" Red Snapper ($45) fell short of expectations. The fish was stuffed with Chinese cabbage, kaffir lime, and ginger, but it was unfortunately overcooked and slightly dry. Additionally, the oversteaming may have caused the bitterness of the lemon to infuse into the fish flesh, resulting in a bitter aftertaste. On the bright side, with its tangy pickled flavour, the stuffed cabbage was refreshing and delicious, providing a silver lining to the dish.

Bites & Brews brings a delightful variety of innovative dishes and classic favourites to Joo Chiat, wrapped in a laid-back, resort-like ambience. While there were some hits and misses, the creativity and execution of the dishes, especially the Gold & Purple Hummus and the Mapo Tofu Lasagna, showcase the restaurant's potential. Whether you're there for brunch or dinner, Bites & Brews offers a promising new spot to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends or family.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Bites & Brews
15 Crane Road
Singapore 429360
Tel: +65 8815 9615
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Thu: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm
Fri-Sat: 11am - 4pm, 5pm - 12midnight
Sun: 10am - 4pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 16 or 33. Alight 3 stops later. Walk towards Carpmael Road. Turn left onto Carpmael Road. Walk down Carpmael Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Entrepôt @ The Robertson House - A Taste of Anglo-Asian Inspired Cuisine

Entrepôt at The Robertson House stands the hotel's all-day dining restaurant and bar. Conceptualised based on Singapore's quayside story and growth as an entrepôt port, Entrepôt's menu is inspired by Anglo-Asian cooking techniques and flavours. The dishes are also crafted with communal dining and a spirit of friendliness in mind.

Black Sesame Hummus 2.8/5

Pita Bread

Our dinner began with an off-the-menu starter - Black Sesame Hummus and Charcoal-grilled Pita Bread with dukkah. The acidity of the hummus was quite on point, but the flavour of the black sesame seemed to have been overshadowed by the seasoning.

Signature Chinese Terracotta Tea 4/5

Next was the Signature Chinese Terracotta Tea ($10/portion), featuring a Crustacean Tortellini in Chinese Dried Mushroom Tea and Lapsang Souchong. The tea-infused mushroom consomme was earthy and light, complementing the meaty tortellini well.

Heirloom Tomato and Fermented Plum Salad 4/5

From the Starter menu, we also tried the Heirloom Tomato and Fermented Plum Salad ($18). The Fermented Plum Dressing, combined with a sprinkle of salty Olive Vegetables, worked harmoniously to enhance the inherent sweetness of the tomatoes. Elevating the dish further were drops of Thai Basil Oil, adding a delightful pepperiness to the overall flavour profile.

Angelica Root French Corn-fed Chicken Roast 3/5

Tasting portion

For Mains, we had the Angelica Root French Corn-fed Chicken Roast ($45), served with Cordyceps, Mushrooms and Asian Napa Cabbage. The well-caramelised skin was deliciously savoury-sweet with Herbal Honey. While the meat was tender, I found it rather bland, particularly when contrasted with the heavily seasoned Angelica Root Chicken Jus.

Claypot Rice 3/5

Claypot Rice ($28) indulged with Chorizo Sausage and Smoked Pancetta, contributing robust flavours and a meaty texture to the rice. The earthiness of the Wild Mushrooms provided a well-balanced contrast to the intense flavours of the meats. However, the dish leaned towards being a bit overly flavoured due to the infusion of Harissa in the rice.

Sticky Red Date Pudding 3/5

For desserts, we had Sticky Red Date Pudding with Butterscotch Ice Cream. The ice cream had a smooth and velvety texture, but the pudding, unfortunately, lacked the dense and sticky texture that I was anticipating.

The Drinks Menu is attractive with spirits and teas exclusively crafted for The Robertson House, such as Dr Robertson's Gin & Tonic concocted with Dr Robertson's Gin, the hotel's exclusive gin crafted with Tanglin Gin, Singapore's pioneering gin distillery.

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.


Entrepôt
The Robertson House
1 Unity Street
Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 8301689
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 630am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Clemenceau Ave. Turn left onto Clemenceau Ave, walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Common Man Coffee Roasters @ Alexandra - New Outlet Housed In A Heritage Building

Common Man Coffee Roasters has recently opened its outlet at Alexandra, located in a beautiful heritage building outside Anchorpoint. In the evening, Common Man Night Shift takes over to provide after-hours sessions with food and wine.

Turkish Common Man Breakfast 4.5/5

Its menu has been updated with a few dishes. Under Breakfast, we had Turkish Common Man Breakfast ($29). Presented in a rather unusual way but equally tasty. We had a phyllo-wrapped soft-boiled egg on the plate accompanied by 2 crispy feta balls on a bed of green hummus, served with grilled pita bread. The egg was gorgeous with a jammy centre, and the green hummus was well seasoned with a good amount of spice that gave this dish its characteristic flavour profile. The toasted pita bread had a nutty taste, making it a good base for the dish's bold flavours.

Kouign Amann Toast 4/5

For a sweet breakfast item, Kouign Amann Toast ($25) is an excellent alternative to waffles or pancakes, featuring the popular Kouign Amann from TBB crowned with Vanilla ice cream, complete with a classic cherry-chocolaty combination of cherries, plume compote and chocolate sauce. The sprinkle of chocolate granola nuts and almonds gave the dish a delectable crunch and nuttiness.

Conti Sandwich 3/5

Under Lunch offerings, Conti Sandwich ($29) features Foccacia from TBB spread with sundried tomato, and shaved ham and rocket leaves are sandwiched in between. The Foccacia was excellent, with a fluffy and chewy texture and a pronounced rosemary flavour. Though Strataciatella and Pecorino cream were listed on the menu, there was little of it. Overall, it is still a decent sandwich.

Grilled Veggie Salad 3.8/5

Grilled Veggie Salad ($27) was vibrant with savoury and citrusy orange miso dressing and appetizing with a salty punch boosted by an addition of Anchovy cream. It was hearty with charred courgette, burnt cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado and a soft-boiled egg. The salad is topped with pieces of morish parmesan crisp for a textural crunch.

Chilli Chicken 4/5

Chilli Chicken ($32) features a Supreme cut chicken breast, a dish that celebrates warm flavours and that of spices. Despite its lean nature, the chicken breast was exceptionally succulent, enriched with a serving of creamy avocado salsa and starchy smashed sweet potato. The accompanying harissa sauce elevated the bold flavour profile, with peppery rocket leaves and pickle onions to cut through the savoury intensity.

Words and photos 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.


Common Man Coffee Roasters
368 Alexandra Road
#01-01
Singapore 159952
Tel: +65 6877 4872
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Nearest MRT: Queenstown (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon: 730am – 5pm
Tue–Thu, Sun: 730am – 10pm
Fri–Sat: 730am – 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Queenstown MRT station. Take Exit B or C. Walk to bus stop at Queenstown MRT station (Stop ID 11149). Take bus number 195. Alight 3 stops later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

True Cost @ Suntec City - A Rooftop Restaurant And Wine Bar In Suntec City’s Sky Garden

If you have yet to hear of True Cost, it is a restaurant in the Sky Garden of Suntec City dedicated to providing a dining experience for its guest with quality food and drinks without high markups in cost.

Seafood Lucky Tower 4/5

True Cost kept in mind the universal lucky number '8' while putting this Seafood Lucky Tower ($88) together. In each of these towers, you will enjoy 8 slices of scallop sashimi, 8 slices of salmon sashimi, 8 slices of unagi, 8 pieces of Japanese oysters, 8 prawns and 8 baby lobsters, accompanied with tobiko caviar. Though we were not big fans of the texture of the baby lobsters, freshness was there for the sashimi items and prawns.

Hummus with Kimchi Cucumbers 4.2/5

The Hummus with Kimchi Cucumbers ($7.50) was a pleasant surprise. In this unlikely combination, the tangy kimchi cucumbers gave an extra brightness and a slight kick of spice in contrast to the creaminess of the hummus. I recommend topping up more of the fluffy soft pita, as the default portion comes with only a piece. We heard that they fly in their pita bread from Greece!

Burrata with Dried Grapes and Mint Leaves 4/5

If you are a fan of burrata, the Burrata with Dried Grapes and Mint Leaves ($14.50) is one to look out for. We preferred it to be less sweet, but it was an interesting take, with juicy grapes and chopped mint leaves paired with the creamy burrata.

Bone Marrow with Mushrooms and Bulgogi Sauce 4/5

My dining companions enjoyed the Bone Marrow with Mushrooms and Bulgogi Sauce ($18.95). They described the bone marrow and bulgogi sauce pairing as unexpected but something they'd have again. From all the dishes we have tried, unique flavour combinations are something True Cost emphasises.

Pork Belly with Sweet Potato Purée and Tomato Jam 4/5

Lastly, we had the Pork Belly with Sweet Potato Puree and Tomato Jam ($14.95). We found this a bit oily, but the fatty pork belly was tender. The sweetness from the sweet potato purée and slight tartness from the tomato jam complemented nicely.

Do note that there is a moderate entrance fee applied to all guests visiting True Cost, depending on the time of day. It is $5 per pax for lunch between 12 to 3pm, and $10 per pax for dinner between 5pm to 9pm. Entrance fee is complimentary daily between 3pm to 5pm and 9pm to 10pm. If you opt for bar seatings, there is a 50% discount off for entrance fees. Table reservations can be made via https://reserve.oddle.me/en_SG/truecost/.

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.


True Cost
Suntec City, SkyGarden
#03-302/303
3 Temasek Boulevard 
Tel: +65 88940615
Website
Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

True Cost Singapore @ Suntec City - Quality Fare Priced At its “True Cost” Instead Of Usual Market/Restaurant Price

True Cost Singapore at Suntec City prides itself on offering quality dining at a fraction of the market price. You need only pay a relatively low cover charge ($5 for weekday lunch) and ($10 for weekend dinner) to experience good quality fare at a fraction of its market price. Each dish is tagged on the menu with its "True Cost" price and market prices.

Yellowtail Crudo 4.8/5

We started the meal with a few cold appetisers showing off their ingredients' freshness. The Yellowtail Crudo ($7.65 / Usual Market Price $24.00) had a firm flesh and a light flavour elevated with a citrusy but savoury dressing. I love how the olive tapenade and green chillies atop lent an extra bite and freshness.

Heh Marinated Scallop 4/5

Another well-loved dish is this plump Heh Marinated Scallop ($19.76 Usual/ Market Price $24.00) flavoured with fragrant chilli garlic, coriander and pink pepper that brought out the sweetness of the scallop. The pickled cucumber added an enjoyable crunch to these mouth-filling pieces of the scallop.

Salmon Truffle Crudo 4/5

Salmon Truffle Crudo ($10.50 / Usual Market Price $18.00) is a crowd-pleasing dish. The addition of fresh horseradish gave the salmon an edge that counters its richness.

Hummus With Kim Chi Cucumbers 4/5

Hummus With Kim Chi Cucumbers ($5.95 / Usual Market Price $14.00) was rich, creamy and wholesome, perfect with the flatbread served on the side.

Japanese Style Beef Tartare 3/5

Japanese Style Beef Tartare ($9 / Usual Market Price $23.00) was decent, but its creamy and tangy accompaniment overwhelmed its flavour.

Bone Marrow 3.5/5

Slathered with dried chilli oil, the Bone Marrow ($14.25 / Price In Other Restaurants $28.00) was full-flavoured, with a cheesy yoghurt sauce served on the side to cut its richness. A basket of bread instead of just a slice is probably more apt to clean the bones!

Grilled Eggplant With Miso 2.5/5

I had an excellent grilled eggplant with miso at Sens of Japan before, and that is just unforgettable. Unfortunately, this Grilled Eggplant With Miso ($6.65 / Price In Other Restaurants $14.00) paled in comparison with a confusing flavour profile and too many elements. The miso lacks flavour, and the presence of the pickled onions seems unnecessary.

Octopus With Potato Mousse 4/5

For mains, Octopus With Potato Mousse ($19.85 / Price In Other Restaurants $30.00) is a real gem at this price point. The octopus was grilled with the right amount of char and doneness. However, the potato mousse could have been less buttery as it got cloying after a while.

Beef Cheek With Pea Purée 2.5/5

The Beef Cheek With Pea Purée ($12.75 / Price In Other Restaurants $30.00) comes at a very attractive price point but was disappointingly dry. The curry-flavour puree was too sweet and intense, and the sauce didn't quite bring the elements together either.

Ceviche Mary 4/5

True Cost also keeps the tipples at affordable prices despite its location and gorgeous setting. We had a smokey and piquant Ceviche Mary ($11.30), a reimagination of the morning cocktail Bloody Mary, featuring a tomato mix blended with 12 handpicked secret ingredients.

Cover Charges
Mon - Thu: 11am - 3pm - $5
Mon - Thu: 5pm - 10pm - $10
Mon - Fri: 3pm - 5pm - FREE ENTRANCE
Fri: 5pm - 10pm - $15
Sat: $15
Sun: $10
PH: $15

I understand the restaurant currently is opened daily from 5pm to 11pm but it has planned to extend it opening hours 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.


True Cost Singapore
Suntec City
Sky Garden
3 Temasek Boulevard
#03-302-303
Singapore 038983
Tel: +65 88940615
Website
Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 5pm - 11pm

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

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]