Pura Brasa @ PLQ 1 - Expands to the East with Josper-Grilled Spanish Specialities

Barcelona-born Spanish charcoal-grill concept Pura Brasa has expanded to the East with its second Singapore outlet at PLQ 1, nine years after its international debut at Tanjong Pagar. Known for its signature Josper charcoal oven, the restaurant brings together Spanish tapas, charcoal-grilled meats and seafood, and traditional Spanish rice dishes in a casual, convivial setting.

The new outlet places a greater emphasis on tapas and sharing, making it a neighbourhood dining destination for gatherings with friends and family. Diners can look forward to 20 tapas dishes, a mix of familiar favourites and new creations, alongside PLQ-exclusive signatures that showcase the restaurant's charcoal-grilling techniques.

Limited-Time $5 Opening Specials

To celebrate the opening, Pura Brasa PLQ Mall is also offering a Limited-time $5 Opening Promotion. Available daily from 3pm during restaurant operating hours, diners can enjoy their first selected tapas dish or drink for just $5. The selection includes Ibérico Pork Collar Satay, Chicken Wings, Spanish Omelette, Croquetas, Crispy Potatoes, Baba Ganoush, Broccolini and Sweet Corn. Selected drinks, including house-pour red or white wine and Spanish pale lager Estrella Galicia, are also available under the promotion.

Chef's Abuela's Beef & Pork Meatballs 4.2/5

A comforting start to the meal, Chef's Abuela's Beef & Pork Meatballs ($18) features handmade beef and pork meatballs served with seasonal mushrooms and crispy potato cubes. The name "abuela" means grandmother in Spanish, and the dish certainly evokes the kind of homely cooking associated with a family kitchen.

The meatballs were soft and tender, with a pleasant balance of beefy and pork flavours. They were generously coated in a savoury tomato-based gravy that brought everything together without being overly heavy. The mushrooms added an earthy dimension, while the crispy potato cubes provided a contrasting texture. It was a hearty, comforting tapas dish that offered a taste of traditional Spanish home cooking.

Josper-Grilled Iberico Pork Collar Satay 4.2/5

One of the more interesting tapas offerings was the Josper-Grilled Ibérico Pork Collar Satay ($16). The Cajun-spiced pork collar skewers are grilled in the restaurant's signature Josper charcoal oven, which imparts a distinctive smoky aroma and appetising char to the meat.

The Ibérico pork collar was tender and juicy, with its natural marbling keeping the meat moist while delivering a rich, savoury flavour. The Cajun seasoning added a gentle layer of spice, while the tangy Indonesian peanut sauce provided a sweet and nutty counterpoint. Finished with crispy fried shallots, the skewers offered an enjoyable combination of smokiness, savouriness and crunch.

Josper-Grilled White Sweet Corn 4.5/5

For a vegetable-forward option, the Josper-Grilled White Sweet Corn ($19) showcases how charcoal grilling can transform a seemingly simple ingredient. The corn is grilled over high heat until lightly charred, developing a smoky aroma while retaining its natural sweetness and juicy bite.

Served with savoury Cajun butter, the corn had a richer flavour profile, with the buttery seasoning complementing the kernels' sweetness. The charred edges added another layer of flavour, making this a worthwhile sharing plate for those who enjoy grilled vegetables.

Josper-Grilled Broccolini 4/5

The Josper-Grilled Broccolini ($20) is another vegetable dish that benefits from the restaurant's charcoal-grilling technique. The broccolini is grilled until it develops a rustic char while retaining a pleasant bite, with smoky notes that enhance its natural earthy flavour.

It is served with romesco sauce and escalivada emulsion. The romesco, a classic Catalan sauce traditionally made with roasted peppers, tomatoes, nuts and garlic, brings a nutty, savoury and slightly tangy character to the dish. Together with the smoky broccolini, the sauces add depth and complexity, making this more than just a simple side of greens.

Octopus Leg 4.2/5

For seafood lovers, the Octopus Leg ($38) is a signature dish worth considering. Sourced from Galicia in Spain, the thick octopus leg is grilled in the Josper oven and served with potato puree and sweet paprika. The charcoal grilling gives the exterior a beautifully browned, savoury finish while adding a subtle smokiness. Beneath the charred surface, the octopus was tender and meaty, with a satisfying bite. The smooth potato purée provided a creamy base that complemented the octopus without overwhelming it, while the sweet paprika added a gentle warmth.

Josper-Grilled Argentinian Striploin 4.2/5

Meat lovers can opt for the Josper-Grilled Argentinian Striploin (250g $35), served with crispy fried potatoes and house-made chimichurri. Cooked at high temperatures in the charcoal oven, the striploin develops a well-seared exterior that adds a smoky, savoury character. The intense heat helps create a flavourful crust while retaining the meat's natural juices. Paired with crispy fried potatoes, the steak makes a satisfying main course, while the chimichurri brings a fresh, herbaceous, tangy contrast that cuts through the beef's richness. The combination of grilled beef, potatoes and chimichurri is straightforward but effective, highlighting the appeal of good ingredients prepared over charcoal.

Iberico Pork Paella 4.2/5

One of the highlights exclusive to the PLQ Mall outlet is the Ibérico Pork Paella ($37 Medium Size), a hearty interpretation of the Spanish rice classic that puts the restaurant's charcoal-grilling expertise front and centre. The dish features Spanish rice cooked with a deeply savoury broth and topped with Josper-grilled Ibérico pork jowl, crispy pork jowl bites and allioli. The rice absorbs the flavours of the broth while picking up a subtle smoky aroma from the grilling technique. The Ibérico pork jowl adds another dimension to the dish. With its generous marbling, the pork delivers a rich, savoury flavour, while the crispy pieces provide a satisfying contrast to the softer rice. The allioli adds a creamy, garlicky finish that ties the components together.

Burnt Basque Cheesecake 3.5/5

For dessert, the Burnt Basque Cheesecake ($12/Slice) offers a familiar but satisfying finish. Its signature deeply caramelised top gives the cheesecake a rustic appearance, with the darkened surface contributing notes of toasted sugar and a hint of smokiness. Beneath the exterior, the cheesecake has a soft, creamy texture, with a custard-like centre that contrasts with the more caramelised edges.

Catalan Cream 3.5/5

Another Spanish classic on the dessert menu is Catalan Cream ($13), the traditional Catalan counterpart to French crème brûlée. The dessert features a silky custard infused with lemon zest and cinnamon, giving it a fragrant citrus note alongside gentle warmth from the spice. The highlight is the crisp layer of caramelised sugar on top, which cracks satisfyingly under the spoon to reveal the smooth custard beneath. The bright citrus notes help balance the richness of the egg-based custard, while the caramel adds a pleasant bittersweet finish.

With its second Singapore outlet at PLQ Mall, Pura Brasa brings its Barcelona-born concept of Spanish tapas and charcoal-grilled cooking to the East. For those planning a visit, the limited-time $5 opening promotion offers an affordable way to sample selected tapas or drinks from 3pm daily. Whether you stop by for a few small plates or settle in for a more substantial meal of charcoal-grilled meats and paella, Pura Brasa PLQ Mall is a new option to consider for Spanish dining in the East.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Pura Brasa
Paya Lebar Quarter 1
1 Paya Lebar Link
#01-01
Singapore 408533
Tel: +65 96726025
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu, Sun: 1130am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 12midnight

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

Caffe Fernet @ Customs House - Italian Dining with Marina Bay's View

Sitting along the Singapore River with an unobstructed view of Marina Bay Sands, Caffe Fernet is one of those spots where the location is part of the experience. The open-concept space feels relaxed and breezy, making it an easy choice for after-work drinks, a casual dinner or a leisurely evening by the waterfront. The menu lends itself particularly well to sharing, with a selection of small plates, pastas and larger dishes that make it tempting to order a little bit of everything.

Hamachi Crudo 3.5/5

We started with the Hamachi Crudo ($29), served with fennel and pickled celery. The thick slices of hamachi were fresh and refreshing, and the pickled celery added acidity to the dish. It was enjoyable on its own, but compared to some of the other small plates we had that evening, it was one of the less memorable ones.

Zucchini Noodle Salad 4.8/5

Now this is one salad I would happily have an entire portion to myself! The Zucchini Noodle Salad ($22) was surprisingly flavourful, with mint, pine nuts and ricotta salata coating every strand of the zucchini noodles. Fresh and light yet packed with flavour, this was easily one of our favourites of the meal. Who knew zucchini noodles could be this addictive?

Iberico Pork Pluma 4.8/5

Another small plate we shared was the Iberico Pork Pluma ($29), served with salsa verde. The slightly sweet pork immediately reminded us of char siew in the best possible way. The slices were generous and incredibly tender, while the salsa verde helped cut through the richness. Definitely another dish we would order again.

Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe 5/5

The star of the meal for us was undoubtedly the Mafaldine Cacio e Pepe ($29). Deceptively simple, relying on just a handful of ingredients, Caffe Fernet’s version combines peppercorns, Parmesan and Pecorino with beautifully chewy, al dente mafaldine.

The chef shared that three different types of peppercorns are used, giving the pasta plenty of fragrance and depth. We loved it so much that we actually asked for more pepper for an extra kick, and the chef generously added more Parmesan for us too! It’s also a great pasta to share if you want to save room for more of the smaller plates.

Tiramisu 4/5

Of course, we couldn’t end an Italian-inspired meal without Tiramisu ($18). This classic dessert came with layers of rich mascarpone cream and ladyfingers soaked in dark rum and espresso. Creamy, boozy and coffee-forward, it was a satisfying way to round off the meal without getting overly complicated.

Singapore Sling and Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade

Peach Boulevardier

Caffe Fernet clearly puts plenty of thought into its drinks too. We tried three during our meal: the Singapore Sling ($23), Peach Boulevardier ($25) and a non-alcoholic Yuzu & Cinnamon Lemonade ($18). With the restaurant’s waterfront location and Marina Bay Sands right across the river, it’s easy to imagine coming here even just for drinks, especially as the evening sets in.

Come for the view but definitely stay for the food. Caffe Fernet has one of those locations that immediately sets the mood, right in the CBD, overlooking the Singapore River with Marina Bay Sands in full view. The open-concept setting can get rather windy (and yes, a little humid because this is Singapore!), but we loved the relaxed atmosphere.

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


Caffe Fernet
Customs House
70 Collyer Quay
#01-05
Singapore 049323
Tel: +65 91781105
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place MRT Station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clifford Centre. Cut across Clifford Centre and walk to Collyer Quay Road. Cross the road via the OUE Link. Turn right and walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Man Fu Yuan @ Frasers House - Refined Midday Indulgence with New Executive Lunch Sets

Located within Frasers House, Man Fu Yuan presents a refreshed Executive Lunch Menu that continues to showcase its refined Cantonese culinary philosophy. Designed for both business diners and those seeking a leisurely midday indulgence, the new offering introduces two thoughtfully curated 4-course sets — Willow ($52) and Camellia ($58), with a minimum of two diners required. Diners can further enhance their experience with optional starters such as the Dim Sum Platter (+$12) or Roast Platter (+$18).

We had the opportunity to sample the Camellia set, along with both add-on starters, offering a comprehensive look at the restaurant’s refined Cantonese repertoire.

Man Fu Yuan Dim Sum Platter 4.2/5

The Man Fu Yuan Dim Sum Platter makes for a delightful prelude. The trio showcases a balance of textures and flavours — from the juicy Pork and Prawn Siew Mai topped with tobiko for a subtle briny pop, to the Crystal Dumpling infused with Black Truffle, lending an earthy elegance. The Deep-fried Seafood Lychee Ball adds a contrasting crunch, with a lightly crisp exterior giving way to a succulent, mildly sweet filling.

Man Fu Yuan Roast Platter 4.2/5

Equally compelling is the Man Fu Yuan Roast Platter. The Honey-glazed Iberico Pork Collar stands out with its tender bite and caramelised glaze, delivering a satisfying interplay of sweetness and savoury depth. Meanwhile, the Braised Cantonese Soy Chicken, enhanced with black truffle, offers a refined take on a classic, its silky skin and well-seasoned meat reflecting careful execution.

Braised Seafood Soup with Conpoy in Superior Stock 4.2/5

The meal begins in earnest with the Braised Seafood Soup with Conpoy in Superior Stock. A hallmark of Cantonese culinary philosophy, the soup exemplifies restraint and precision. The broth, painstakingly simmered with Jinhua ham, chicken, and pork, reveals a layered umami richness while remaining remarkably clean on the palate. Its lightly thickened consistency lends body without heaviness, making it both comforting and invigorating — a fitting opener that gently awakens the senses. It serves as an elegant, restorative opening to the lunch progression. The dish is fragrant and warm, designed to awaken the palate without overwhelming it, perfectly preparing the diner for the subsequent courses.

Steamed Grouper Fillet with Leek, Spring Onion and Premium Soya Sauce 4.2/5

Taking centre stage is the Steamed Grouper Fillet with Leek, Spring Onion and Premium Soya Sauce. This dish highlights the kitchen’s respect for quality ingredients, allowing the grouper’s natural sweetness and delicate flakiness to shine. The aromatics — leeks and spring onions — are enlivened with a final drizzle of hot oil, releasing their fragrance and adding a subtle sharpness. The superior soya sauce, nuanced and balanced, ties the elements together without overpowering the fish’s inherent flavours.

Braised Ee Fu Noodle with Shredded Duck 3.5/5

For a more comforting note, the Braised Ee Fu Noodle with Shredded Duck rounds off the savoury courses. The noodles, with their signature sponge-like texture, absorb the savoury braising sauce well, resulting in a rich, flavourful dish. While hearty and satisfying, the profile leans towards the familiar, offering a more rustic contrast to the earlier refined courses.

Chilled Eight Flower Tea with Longan, Ginkgo Nut, Red Date 4/5

Dessert arrives as the Chilled Eight Flower Tea with Longan, Ginkgo Nut, and Red Date — a light, nourishing conclusion. The floral infusion is subtle yet fragrant, complemented by the natural sweetness of longan and red dates. The inclusion of ginkgo nuts adds textural interest, while the chilled serving refreshes the palate. It is a thoughtful ending that aligns with traditional Chinese dining principles of balance and restoration.

Overall, the refreshed Executive Lunch Menu at Man Fu Yuan delivers a well-paced and satisfying dining experience, balancing refinement with approachability. With its accessible pricing and polished execution, it presents an excellent option for those seeking a quality Cantonese lunch in a sophisticated setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting


Man Fu Yuan
Frasers House
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

Jiang-Nan Chun @ Four Seasons Hotel Singapore – Discover the “Passages of Spring” Seasonal Menu

At Jiang-Nan Chun, the arrival of spring is marked by a thoughtfully curated seasonal menu, available from 15 March to 15 May 2026. Helmed by award-winning Executive Chinese Chef Alan Chan, the eight-week showcase celebrates the season’s first harvests — tender greens, young shoots, and delicate blossoms — translated into refined Cantonese plates. We experienced the six-course set menu ($238++ per person), a well-paced journey highlighting both technique and seasonality.

Amuse Bouche 4/5

The meal began on a refreshing note with a simple yet effective amuse bouche of Pickled Tomato. Light, juicy and naturally sweet, the tomatoes provided a bright, palate-awakening start, gently priming the appetite for the courses ahead.

Jiang-Nan Platter 4.2/5

The opening platter presented a trio of delicacies: Marinated Fresh South African Abalone, Honey-Glazed Iberico Pork, and Spiced Fried Scallop. The standout was undoubtedly the marinated abalone, a departure from the usual braised rendition. Here, the abalone retained a delicate bite while absorbing a nuanced marinade that elevated its natural brininess with a gentle layering of flavours. The honey-glazed Iberico pork (char siew) impressed with its succulent texture, offering a pleasing balance of lean meat and fat, its caramelised glaze lending a subtle smokiness and sweetness. Completing the trio, the spiced fried scallop delivered textural contrast. It was crisp on the outside while remaining plump and tender within.

Double-Boiled Chicken Soup 5/5

A highlight of the evening, the Double-Boiled Chicken Soup with Sea Whelk, Conpoy and Morel Mushroom was served in a whole coconut, marrying presentation with depth of flavour. Slow-simmered over hours, the soup achieved remarkable clarity while extracting the essence of each ingredient. The natural sweetness of the coconut lent a gentle, refreshing lift, while the conpoy (dried scallops) and sea whelk contributed layers of umami richness. Spring morel mushrooms added an earthy complexity, rounding out the profile. Comforting yet invigorating, the soup struck a beautiful balance between nourishment and refinement, a dish deeply rooted in Cantonese culinary tradition.

Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef 4.5/5

The Wok-Fried A5 Wagyu Beef with Spring Bamboo Shoots in Black Pepper Sauce showcased a masterful interplay of richness and freshness. The A5 Wagyu, with its intense marbling, was indulgently tender and flavourful, while the seasonal bamboo shoots introduced a crisp, clean contrast. Their subtle sweetness and fibrous crunch helped cut through the richness of the beef, preventing the dish from becoming overwhelming. The black pepper sauce added aromatic heat and depth, tying the elements together into a harmonious, well-balanced plate that felt both luxurious and surprisingly light.

Braised White Asparagus in Superior Broth 4/5

Celebrating another prized spring ingredient, the Braised White Asparagus was executed with finesse. Naturally sweet and tender with a gentle crunch, the asparagus absorbed the superior broth beautifully, enhancing its delicate flavour without overpowering it. The addition of bacon introduced a savoury, smoky undertone that provided contrast and depth, elevating what could have been a simple vegetable dish into something more layered and satisfying.

Braised Inaniwa Noodles with Australian Lobster and Mushrooms in Shrimp Sauce 4.2/5

The noodle course delivered both elegance and comfort. Silky Inaniwa noodles were paired with tender Australian lobster and fresh mushrooms, all enveloped in a rich shrimp sauce. The lobster’s natural sweetness shone through, complemented by the umami-laden sauce, while the mushrooms added an earthy dimension. The noodles, known for their smooth texture, carried the sauce effortlessly, resulting in a dish that was refined yet approachable, a gentle expression of spring’s lighter, more nuanced flavours.

Orange Blossom Mousse with Black Sesame Cremeux and White Chocolate 4.5/5

Dessert arrived in a visually charming form, shaped like an orange. Beneath its delicate exterior, the Orange Blossom Mousse was light and aromatic, offering floral citrus notes without veering into excessive sweetness. The black sesame crémeux introduced a nutty depth, while the white chocolate added a creamy richness, tying the elements together. The interplay of flavours was well-judged, resulting in a balanced and refreshing conclusion to the meal.

Jiang-Nan Chun’s seasonal menu is a graceful ode to spring, where premium ingredients and time-honoured techniques come together in a polished, contemporary expression of Cantonese cuisine. Available for both lunch and dinner, the menu is offered as a six-course set ($238++ per person) or à la carte (from $28++), with an optional wine pairing ($85++) to further enhance the experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Jiang Nan Chun (江南春)
Four Seasons Hotel Singapore
Second Floor
190 Orchard Boulevard
Singapore 248646
Tel: +65 68317653
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 2pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 11. Walk straight down Orchard Boulevard Road. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 6 minutes. [Map]

Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒) @ Marriott Tang Plaza Singapore - Unveils its “Spring in Bloom Delicacies” Limited-time Menu

Marking the arrival of Spring, Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant unveils its "Spring in Bloom Delicacies", a limited-time menu inspired by seasonal ingredients traditionally enjoyed during this vibrant time of year. Available from 4 March to 30 April 2026, the menu showcases the restaurant's dedication to premium, sustainably sourced produce, thoughtfully crafted into refined Cantonese creations. Diners can look forward to an extensive à la carte selection of handcrafted dim sum, alongside a beautifully curated 5-course set menu.

Trio of Appetisers 4/5

We began our dinner with the Trio of Appetisers, a delightful introduction to the season's flavours presented in elegant bite-sized portions. The Deep-Fried Prawn with Mandarin Orange Sauce stood out with its light, crisp exterior coated in a citrusy glaze that added a refreshing zing. The Roast Kurobuta Pork Char Siew with Osmanthus Honey offered a luscious balance of smoky sweetness, elevated by the floral notes of osmanthus. Completing the trio was the Pan-Fried Japanese Scallop with Spring Bamboo Shoot and Yuzu, where the scallop's natural sweetness was complemented by the gentle crunch of bamboo shoot and a subtle yuzu brightness.

Steamed Marble Goby Fillet 3.8/5

Next, we had the Steamed Marble Goby Fillet with Pea Sprout in Lemongrass Chicken Superior Stock. The marble goby fillet was delicate and tender, boasting a clean, naturally sweet flavour and a silky texture that absorbed the broth's essence well. The superior stock, enriched with chicken and lifted by aromatic lemongrass, lent the dish a creamy depth. While comforting and well-executed, the flavour profile leaned towards being slightly one-dimensional, and a more pronounced piquant contrast could have added greater complexity.

Stewed Iberico Pork 4/5

The Stewed Iberico Pork with Fermented Red Bean Curd Paste and Spring Bamboo Shoot, served in a stone pot, delivered a hearty and satisfying note. The Iberico pork was fork-tender, richly infused with the fermented red bean curd paste, giving it a deep umami richness. This was beautifully balanced by the natural sweetness and crisp texture of the spring bamboo shoots, adding both contrast and dimension to the dish.

Golden Vermicelli with Crab Meat, Spring Bamboo Shoot and Ginger 3.8/5

Following that, the Golden Vermicelli with Crab Meat, Spring Bamboo Shoot and Ginger offered an interplay of textures. The vermicelli, deep-fried to a golden crisp, provided a light crunch that paired well with the plump, sweet crab meat and crunchy bamboo shoots. While enjoyable, the accompanying sauce could have been brighter and more vibrant to better tie the elements together and elevate the overall dish.

Chilled White Chrysanthemum Jelly with Honey Sorbet 3/5

To conclude, the Chilled White Chrysanthemum Jelly with Honey Sorbet provided a refreshing and soothing finish. The chrysanthemum jelly was light and subtly floral, complemented by the gentle sweetness of the honey sorbet — a clean and palate-cleansing end to the meal.

Overall, the Spring in Bloom Delicacies menu at Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant captures the essence of the season through refined Cantonese craftsmanship, highlighting quality ingredients with elegant restraint. While some dishes could benefit from bolder contrasts, the menu remains a thoughtful and polished celebration of springtime flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Wan Hao Chinese Restaurant (萬豪軒)
Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
320 Orchard Road
Singapore 238865
Tel: +65 6831 4605
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11.30am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk to the destination. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]