Showing posts with label Ice Cream. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ice Cream. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 21, 2024

5 ON 25 (五悦亭) @ Andaz Singapore - Refined Cantonese Dining Experience with Panoramic City Skyline View

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The newly renovated 5 ON 25 at Andaz Singapore reopened in June. It offers a fresh array of inventive dishes that pay homage to traditional Cantonese cuisine with a modern twist. Perched on the 25th floor of the hotel, the restaurant boasts a comprehensive menu and a breathtaking panoramic view of the city skyline, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

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The culinary team is led by esteemed Chinese Head Chef Lim Hong Lih, who brings years of experience in Cantonese fine dining to the table. We had the pleasure of sampling several dishes, including both new creations and popular signatures. Most of the dishes pictured below were portions adjusted to tasting sizes.

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Cantonese Style Roasted Cage-Free Cherry Valley Duck with Table Side Maotai Flambé 4.5/5

Our meal began with the 5 ON 25 Cantonese Style Roasted Cage-Free Cherry Valley Duck with Table Side Maotai Flambé ($88 for Half). Watching the chef meticulously slice the duck skin was a delightful prelude to the dish itself. For those who prefer without, the duck is also available without the Maotai Flambé at $49 for a half portion.

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Served with freshly steamed skin wrappers, the duck comes with an array of condiments: sweet sauce, sugar, spring onions, cucumber strips, sweet melon strips, and hawthorn strips. While the skin wrapper was slightly thicker than I typically prefer, the crispiness of the duck skin was on point, enhanced by the smokiness from the Maotai flambé. The hawthorn strips, which I feared might be too sweet, turned out to be a harmonious complement.

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Fried Australian Jumbo Quail Legs, Salt & Pepper 4.2/5

Next, the Fried Australian Jumbo Quail Legs, Salt & Pepper ($28) were served. Although a touch salty, the fried quail legs exuded a fragrant, garlicky aroma.

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Crispy Shiitake Mushrooms, Osmanthus Honey Sauce 4/5

Accompanying the quail was the Crispy Shiitake Mushrooms with Osmanthus Honey Sauce ($15). These mushrooms had a satisfying crunch and were glazed with a sweet, floral osmanthus honey sauce.

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Double-Boiled Grouper Soup 4.8/5

I absolutely loved the Double-Boiled Grouper Soup ($48). This creamy broth, infused with delicate fish maw and wolfberries, had a distinct peppery heat and was so rich in collagen that it left a luxurious, sticky mouthfeel. I can't imagine how this could be improved.

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Braised Stuffed Sea Cucumber 4.5/5

The Braised Stuffed Sea Cucumber ($48) was another highlight. The sea cucumber, stuffed with a flavourful mixture of pork and shrimp, was served on a bed of sliced mushrooms and bathed in a rich Yunnan mushroom sauce. The sauce was particularly noteworthy, with its delicious numbing hints of peppercorns and an alluring smokiness.

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Beetroot Fried Rice 4.8/5

5 ON 25's Beetroot Fried Rice ($38) is another dish you must try. The dish features a delightful play of textures with crunchy fried rice bits, preserved vegetables, green beans and Vietnamese tiger prawns. It was fried so fragrant and finished with slices of Hokkaido scallops placed on top. Even though my dining companion and I were pretty full at this point of the meal, we wiped the pot clean quickly.

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Lotus Paste Sesame Pastry 3.8/5

We ended our meal with a selection of desserts. The Lotus Paste Sesame Pastry ($8 for 3 Pieces) featured sweet lotus paste encased in a buttery, flaky pastry.

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Chilled Toasted Sesame Pudding and Apricot Egg Tart 3.8/5

A dessert platter followed, featuring two sets of sweets. The first was a Chilled Toasted Sesame Pudding and Apricot Tart ($15). We preferred the sesame pudding for its fragrant, nutty flavour and smooth, balanced texture. The second dessert was the decadent Grand Cru Chocolate Ice Cream ($20), infused with Wu Liang Ye Liquor, a good option for alcohol-based desserts.

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.


5 ON 25 (五悦亭)
Andaz Singapore
Level 25
5 Fraser Street
Singapore 189354
Tel: +65 64081228
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11.30am - 2.30pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11.30am - 1pm, 1.15pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit E or F. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 15, 2024

The Lobby Lounge @ Intercontinental Singapore - Celestial Bird’s Nest Afternoon Tea Set

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Treat yourself to an indulgent afternoon with Intercontinental Hotel's Celestial Bird's Nest Afternoon Tea Set. Served in the luxe and spacious Lobby Lounge, it's the perfect setting to sip tea, chit chat and nibble on exquisitely crafted savouries and sweet fancies infused with the health benefits of bird's nest.

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Celestial Bird's Nest Afternoon Tea Set 4.5/5

The afternoon tea is presented on a lovely three-tier gold stand reminiscent of a bird cage. The sweets rest pretty on the top tier, each one a visually stunning confection. The Snow Bird's Nest and Caramel Apple Choux is filled with a luscious combination of bird's nest, caramel cremeux and poached apples. The Blood Bird's Nest Blackberries Tartlet is sweet and tart all at once, with blackberry marmalade and chamomile honey custard. However, the vanilla sable base could be firmer as it crumbled pretty easily. Macarons are also filled with Madagascar Vanilla Butter Cream and Osmanthus Honey Cakes.

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Osmanthus Honey Cake

Given how pretty it is, the Osmanthus Honey Cake deserves to star in its own picture! It's light and fragrant with honey, pear, as well as osmanthus jelly and vanilla genoise. It is a refined treat and a delight to eat.

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24K Golden Bird’s Nest bottles

If you were wondering why the two macarons have some numbers emblazoned on them, well, that's the code to unlock the treasure box that holds the 24K Golden Bird's Nest bottles. Each bottle is filled with double-boiled bird's nest, red dates consommé, wolfberries, edible gold leaves and peach gum. Eat up for beautiful skin and improved digestion!

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Second Tier

The trio of savoury bites is thoughtfully curated. We had a dish of Bird's Nest Jelly with Hokkaido Scallop and Oscietra Caviar, a Beef Pastrami and Black Truffle Sandwich with feta cheese, and a Bacon-wrapped Quail Egg Skewer. They were all yummy and had a nice balance to all the sweets we had just eaten. I especially liked the scallop plate!

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Third Tier

Last but not least, we had a Smoked Salmon Quiche, classic English Buttermilk Scones, and Lemonade Scones. The scones were served with Devonshire clotted cream, Strawberry Rose preserves and Fruits of the Forest jam. Unfortunately, as I decided to eat the scones last, they were a bit cold by the time I got to it.

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If you can still fit more sweets in your stomach, the afternoon tea set also comes with unlimited ice cream! We had the option of banana gelato or mixed berry sorbet, along with a variety of toppings like toasted coconut, chocolate balls, and Oreo crumbs.

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Overall, it was a wonderful and relaxing afternoon tea experience at Intercontinental Hotel's Lobby Lounge. The service is also friendly and prompt. The lounge lets in natural daylight, which also makes for a great setting to capture some photo memories of your experience and with your loved ones.

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This Celestial Bird's Nest Afternoon Tea is available daily till 28 July 2024.

1st Seating: 1:00pm to 3:00pm, 2nd Seating: 3:30pm to 5:30pm
Weekdays $65++ per person, Weekends $70++ per person
Prices are inclusive of one serving of loose-leaf tea/coffee per person. Elevate your experience with a flute of Champagne ($28++), or a glass or signature cocktail ($20++)

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Lobby Lounge
InterContinental Singapore
Level 1
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 68251008
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1-3pm, 330pm - 530pm

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

Thursday, March 21, 2024

808 Eating House @ Joo Chiat Road - New Brunch Collaboration with Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee

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We first stepped into 808 Eating House for Province Restaurant's omakase experience. Province was tucked away at the back, where we needed to walk through 808 Eating House to reach. The latter caught our attention, and I made a mental note to return to try their dishes.

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Situated in the quaint Joo Chiat neighbourhood, this Asian restaurant specialises in fusion-style local creations, blending a diverse range of culinary influences. Their brunch and dinner menus feature sharing snacks, mains, sides, and desserts. In collaboration with Tiong Hoe Specialty Coffee, customers can now indulge in delicious food over a cup of aromatic coffee.

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Duck Fat Financiers 4.5/5

I was most intrigued by the Duck Fat Financiers ($10), especially after learning that they're currently one of the most popular sharing snacks on the menu. While the financiers were slightly dense, they had a decent fluffy texture.

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Pairing them with the chicken liver mousse was a delightful combination. The mousse was rich, buttery, and had a perfect balance of salty and sweet flavours.

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Pickled Quail Eggs 4.2/5

We also ordered the Pickled Quail Eggs ($6), about a dollar each. They were thoroughly marinated, delivering an immediate kick of black vinegar with a hint of coriander fragrance lingering in the background.

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Charcoal Grilled Kaya Toast 4.2/5

Are you looking for a unique twist on your classic kaya toast? Try the Charcoal Grilled Kaya Toast ($8), where the chefs have elevated the dish with a special housemade kaya that's creamy and rich in coconut flavour. It strikes a good balance of sweetness, and the toast is crunchy. However, if you're not a fan of coconut, you might want to skip this option.

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Chicken Curry Rice 4.8/5

I absolutely adored the Chicken Curry Rice ($18). Our server highly recommended this, and I definitely understand why. The dish features fluffy Hom Mali rice topped with prawn-coconut floss, chicken skin crumbles, and chives, accompanied by a fragrant pour of Hainanese curry and a side of crispy chicken thigh.

While I wished they were more generous with the curry, it still won me. The curry was mildly coconutty yet flavorful, with a delightful lingering spice.

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Cold Bee Hoon 4/5

The Cold Bee Hoon ($7) reminded us of cold-tossed somen. It used rice vermicelli, shallot oil, shio kombu, sakura ebi and chives. While the flavours were present, I found it too moist as a whole.

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Ice Cream Sandwich 3.8/5

Among the three dessert options, we decided on the Ice Cream Sandwich ($13) with black sesame parfait, coconut caramel, mushroom crumble and mint. We didn't notice that it used parfait instead of regular ice cream, and we were less of a fan of the slightly oily mouthfeel.

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.


808 Eating House
153 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427431
Tel: +65 8946 8089
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
Sat-Sun: 8am - 3pm, 5pm - 11pm
(Closed on Mon and Tue)

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus 33. Alight 5 stops later. Walk across the open-air carpark. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Tempura Udon by Mizuya @ Tanjong Pagar Road - Premium 7-Course Omakase at $88 Per Pax

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Tempura Udon by Mizuya at Orchid Hotel has recently launched a new menu featuring affordable 7-course omakases that offer its speciality tempura alongside good quality sashimi and other dishes.

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The omakase menu offers homemade seasonal plum wine as part of the menu. It is a nice touch to the overall experience.

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Hyoga fresh oyster 5/5

We had the pleasure of trying the Premium 7 Course ($88/pax), starting with a succulent Hyoga Fresh Oyster.

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Assorted Sashimi 5/5

We indulged in 5 pieces of Assorted Sashimi for the next course, including a luxurious thick cut of toro. It was a great mix of Toro, Scallop, Aka Ebi, Hirame, and Tai. They are served by the Mizuya Singapore team, known for its seafood freshness.

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Chawanmushi 4/5

Before the Tempura course, we had a satisfying Chawanmushi for its smooth and silky consistency.

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Assorted Tempura 4/5

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Salmon Tempura

We were surprised by the generous portion of the Assorted Tempura. On the platter were 2 large prawns, 1 salmon fillet, a slice of pumpkin and mushroom. The prawns were sweet and succulent, the same for the salmon fillet. The vegetables were delectable as well. The batter, however, was somewhat uneven. Some parts were less airy than the others.

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Mini Negitoro Ikura Uni Don 5/5

Capping the meal was a loaded Mini Don brimming with negitoro, ikura and uni. I enjoy the topping's varying textures and briny sweetness, especially the mouth-filling negitoro. The bowl of Miso soup complemented it well.

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Dessert was a scoop of Goma Ice Cream - Simple but satisfying after an indulgent meal. To enjoy the value-for-money omakase with quality and premium ingredients, you can make a reservation via Chope.

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.


Tempura Udon by Mizuya
Orchid Hotel
1 Tras Link
#01-14 Singapore 078867
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 1130am – 230pm, 6pm – 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT statin. Take Exit A. Walk straight to Orchid Hotel. Go around the building to the other side facing Tanjong Pagar Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Monday, January 15, 2024

Fat Cow @ Camden Medical Centre - Launches New Lunch Set Menus and Additional A La Carte Items

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Embarking on a culinary odyssey at Fat Cow, tucked in the heart of Camden Medical Centre, guarantees a voyage into the realm of refined Japanese dining. Enriched by a renewed set lunch menu, this establishment, a culinary staple since 2011, persists in refining the Wagyu encounter through intricate curation.

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Priced from $45++, the set lunches are a comprehensive affair, featuring a salad, miso soup, chawanmushi, a choice of mains, and a dessert of the day. A symphony of flavours unfolds, inviting patrons into exquisite Wagyu indulgence.

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Sous-vide Toriyama Wagyu Don 5/5

The highlight of the new set lunch mains, the Sous-vide Toriyama Wagyu Don ($55++), is a masterpiece. Slow-cooked Toriyama Wagyu from Gunma Prefecture graces a bed of Hokkaido Nanatsuboshi sushi rice. Sliced onions, chives, shio konbu, and housemade truffle ponzu sauce complement the dish, culminating in an explosion of umami flavours. Topped with a Japanese egg yolk, truffle shavings, and edible gold flakes, this donburi stands out as one of the best, boasting complexity and depth.

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Pure Wagyu Hamburger Steak 4.8/5

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The Pure Wagyu Hamburger Steak ($58++) is another gem among the set lunch mains. Crafted from 100% pure Wagyu minced patty, grilled over binchotan, it arrives with seasonal vegetables and Fat Cow's signature 'Fat Rice.' The flavorful and juicy minced patty paired with the hearty Fat Rice, seasoned with kombu, truffle, and rendered Wagyu fat, is a delightful combination, elevating the dining experience.

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Australian Imperial Blossom F4 Wagyu 4.8/5

For those seeking pure beef indulgence, the Australian Imperial Blossom F4 Wagyu, available a la carte at $108++ for 200g, is a stellar addition. Renowned for its exceptional marbling, this Wagyu striploin offers unparalleled tenderness, succulence, and umami flavour. Accompanied by pickled Sri Lankan black pepper, Kizami Wasabi, and Sea Salt, each bite unveils a different facet of premium Wagyu indulgence.

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Honeycomb Vanilla Ice Cream 3.5/5

As a sweet conclusion to the set lunch, a scoop of Honeycomb Vanilla Ice Cream provides a refreshing note. Smooth, creamy, and delicious, it also serves as a delightful palate cleanser after all the richness.

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Housemade Yuzu Cheesecake 4/5

The Housemade Yuzu Cheesecake ($22++) is a revelation for those craving a tangy finish. Silky cream cheese and freshly shredded yuzu create a harmonious blend, delivering creaminess, tanginess, and the zest of yuzu in every bite.

Fat Cow's new set of lunch menus celebrates Wagyu artistry, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to providing an unparalleled Japanese dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Fat Cow
Camden Medical Centre
1 Orchard Boulevard
#01-01/02
Singapore 248649
Tel: +65 6735 0308
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 1030pm
Fri-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

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

Sunday, September 24, 2023

Brasserie Astoria @ Victoria Theater & Concert Hall - Bringing a Touch of Sweden's Grand Dining Halls to Singapore

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Brasserie Astoria, nestled within the iconic Victoria Theater & Concert Hall, brings a touch of Sweden's grand dining halls to Singapore. Here, Chef Frantzén adds his unique twist to classic brasserie dishes, all served with flair, from tableside service to flambé trolleys.

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Spanish Ham 4.2/5

The Spanish Ham ($21) heralded the beginning of our dining experience, pairing the full-flavoured Spanish ham with fragrant Charentais melon from Philibon. Pine nuts and espelette pepper added a delightful crunch and complexity to this classic combination.

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Calamares Fritos 4.2/5

Calamares Fritos ($14) arrived next, encased in a light, crispy batter that promised a satisfying textural bite. Served with Galangal aioli, this dish offered a delightful interplay of flavours.

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Garlic Bread a la Astoria 4.5/5

The Garlic Bread a la Astoria ($10) was no ordinary garlic bread. Sourdough baguette toasted in browned butter, shiro miso, parmesan, yuzu, roasted garlic, and herbs elevated this simple dish to a complex yet utterly delicious masterpiece.

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Crudites 3.5/5

The Crudites ($17) with ranch dressing defied expectations. The vegetables were presented on ice to retain their freshness and were remarkably sweet and delicious — a surprising conversion for any non-vegetarian.

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Butter Fried Råraka 4/5

The Butter Fried Råraka ($36), a Swedish classic akin to Swiss Rösti, delighted with its crispy, buttery texture. Best savoured with vendace roe, chives, creme fraiche, and red onion — each element complementing the other.

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Toasted Astoria 4.5/5

The Toasted Astoria ($32) showcased a medley of prawns, Norwegian king crab, trout roe, wasabi aioli, and pickled red onion atop butter-fried toast. The seafood symphony harmonized beautifully, creating a delectable masterpiece.

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Kebab Pizza 4/5

Kebab Pizza ($35) with duck confit, harissa yoghurt, and pickled jalapeno was a thoughtful combination of flavours that exploded with taste. The fluffy pizza dough provided the perfect canvas.

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Whisky Flambeed Beef (Angus) 4.5/5

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The Whisky Flambéed Angus Beef ($68) was a tableside spectacle. A perfectly cooked steak, tender and juicy, flambéed to perfection and served with kampot and green pepper sauce. It was a true delight for any beef lover, accompanied by roasted potatoes glazed with Fourme d' Ambert.

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Linguine a la Astoria 4.5/5

Linguine a la Astoria ($56) was a revelation, bursting with flavours from melted garlic, parmesan, and fine herbs infused perfectly with the cooked pasta, paired with clams and bafun uni creating a symphony of taste.

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The Waffle Ice Cream 4.2/5

The Waffle Ice Cream ($20) sandwiched between pistachio waffles was a delightful dessert. Oolong ice cream, with its tea aroma paired perfectly with raspberry sauce, all served in a heart-shaped waffle that melted hearts with its thoughtfulness and sweetness.

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Petite Four

Lastly, the Petite Four Trolley offered an array of sweet, bite-sized confectionery priced at $4 each. My favourites included the Macaron, Kardemumma Bulle, and Canele, providing a sweet conclusion to our dinner experience.

At Brasserie Astoria, classic brasserie fare is elevated to an art form, making every visit a memorable dining experience.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Brasserie Astoria
11 Empress Place 
#01-01
Singapore 179558
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line), Raffles Place (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 1145am - 230pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles MRT station. Take Exit H. Walk towards the riverbank. Cross the bridge and walk to Empress Place road. Walk down Empress Place road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]