Tiffin Room @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Celebrates The Rich Traditions Of The Festival of Lights

From 20 October to 3 November 2024, Tiffin Room at Raffles Hotel Singapore celebrates the Festival of Lights with a special Diwali set menu curated by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Kuldeep Negi. The menu showcases a vibrant array of dishes that represent the diverse flavours of India, spanning from the North to the South, East to West. Complementing the culinary experience, Raffles' resident sommeliers have curated a selection of alcoholic beverages to pair with the meal.

Makai Matar Chaat 4/5

The meal commenced with two appetizers. From West India came the Makai Matar Chaat, a delightful medley of sweet corn, green peas, onions, and tomatoes, brought to life with tangy tamarind and herbaceous mint chutneys.

Khumani Mugh Kebab 5/5

Next was the Khumani Mugh Kebab, a tandoor-grilled chicken leg from Uttar Pradesh in North India, tender and rich in spices with a smoky finish, served alongside refreshing yoghurt rice for balance.

For the mains, the dishes were served in the Tiffin Room's signature tiffin boxes, accompanied by an assortment of Garlic Naan, Butter Naan, and the moreish Kashmiri Naan. Nutty and sweet-savoury with pistachios and cranberries, the Kashmiri naan was the perfect pairing for the flavourful curries.

Murgh E Lazeez 4.5/5

The main courses featured regional specialities. From Hyderabad came Murgh E Lazeez, a stuffed chicken breast in a light, well-balanced gravy of onion, chilli, tomato, and cashew nuts. The chicken was tender and infused with the aromatic stuffing.

Erachi Ularthu 4.5/5

Next was Erachi Ularthu, a Keralan-inspired lamb chop stir-fry with caramelized onions, coconut, fennel seeds, and curry leaves. The rich and onion-sweet gravy paired harmoniously with the tender lamb.

Kadhai Lobster 4.2/5

Kadhai Lobster, inspired by Punjabi cuisine, featured a robust tomato curry infused with bell peppers and coriander. Although slightly salty, the lobster was succulent and satisfying.

Moradabadi Fish Biryani 4/5

The Moradabadi Fish Biryani, a take on the biryani from Uttar Pradesh, presented slices of fried pomfret fish buried in fragrant rice, garnished with mint and coriander. While delectable, the version from last year, featuring fresh tomatoes, was preferred for its simplicity and enhanced the rice's flavour.

Diwali Sweets 4.5/5

Dessert was a well-balanced trio of traditional Diwali Sweets paired exquisitely with 1985 Dalva Port wine. The Akhrot Halwa was a sweet, nutty indulgence made from walnut pudding with mixed nuts. The Kaju Strawberry Katli, a slightly creamy cashew fudge blended with strawberries, offered a Southern Indian twist, while the Besan Till Burfi, a chickpea flour and coconut confection, delighted with its comforting sweet finish.

The Diwali dining experience will be available for lunch and dinner in both non-vegetarian (S$122++ per guest) and vegetarian (S$110++ per guest) options from 20 October to 3 November 2024, with a wine pairing option to elevate the dining experience (S$88++ per guest).

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.


Tiffin Room
Raffles Hotel
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Tel: +65 63371886
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12pm - 130pm
Dinner: 630pm - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

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]

Chara Brasserie @ Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre - Mediterranean-Asian Buffet with 4 Rotating Menus

Chara Brasserie is an all-day dining restaurant of the new Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre. Offering a Mediterranean Asian theme buffet, the menu lineup took on inspiration from different countries each day of the week. There are four menus in rotation each week. Be enticed by more than 100 varieties, from classic flavours to modern takes on familiar dishes.

Australian Angus Beef Prime Rib 3.8/5

Seabass 4.5/5

Spice Marinated Whole Baby Lamb Rotisserie 4.5/5

On Friday and Saturday, the Live Rotisserie Station will be fully charged with beautifully roasted meats. As the theme is Mediterranean and Asia Pacific, lamb rotisseries and roast carving stations will take centre stage. The star of this station is the Spice Marinated Whole Baby Lamb Rotisserie (for dinner), alongside other hearty roasts such as Australian Angus Beef Prime Rib and Roasted Chicken.

DIY Chicken Kebab 3/5

There is also an interactive DIY Kebab Station that lets you put together your own kebab. Although the chicken was a tad dry, the creamy hummus made up for the texture.

Seafood on Ice 4.5/5

The Seafood on Ice station brimmed with chilled clams, poached sea prawns, mussels, flower crabs, lobsters, crayfish, and oysters. The oysters were quite exceptional, and a variety of sauces complemented them.

Japanese Okonomiyaki 4.5/5

Korean Tteobokki 3/5

One standout dish from the buffet is the Japanese Okonomiyaki. It's a delightful blend of shredded cabbage, dough, whole egg, and oysters, resulting in a light and satisfying texture. The final touch of sauce and mayonnaise binds the savoury ingredients together with a contrasting sweet and creamy flavour. I reckoned the Korean Tteobokki needed a bit more sauce.

Sashimi 3.8/5

I appreciate the individually plated Sashimi from the Japanese station. You can also find aburi chirashi dons with free-flowing ikura, ebiko, and tobiko.

Chilli Crab 4/5

Black Pepper Crayfish 4/5

Local favourites and flavours are included as well. Both Black Pepper Crayfish and Chilli Crab were being snapped up really fast. Kung Po Smoked Chilli Prawns were an interesting rendition.

Prata Puff and Dahl Curry 4/5

Hand - Skewered Ariff Satay 4/5

Although the Prata Puff and Dahl Curry were a tad oily, they were exceptionally moreish. For the hand-skewered Ariff Satay, I suggest enjoying it early in your meal as they are limited in numbers.

Assorted Kuehs 4.5/5

The Dessert Station was decadent, with a wide range of Nyonya kueh, mini tarts, cupcakes, mini cakes, puddings, and even waffles, served with soft-serve gelato. I tried every single kueh, and they were really delicious!

To celebrate its grand launch, Chara Brasserie is offering an opening special of 25% off the prices of its buffet menu, valid daily until 31 May 2024

Chara Brasserie Buffet Lineup - Flavours From Across the World Four Rotating Menus.
Monday and Tuesday - Flavours of the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia, with the hot stations firing up to cook seafood - focused specialties.
Wednesday and Thursday - Mediterranean with Japanese flair
Friday and Saturday - Mediterranean and Asia Pacific, with lamb rotisseries and roast carving stations set up.
Sunday - An international Mediterranean buffet serving up all three menus from across the week.

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.


Chara Brasserie
Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre
8 Club Street
#02 - 01
Singapore 069472
Tel: +65 8826 8585
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Chinatown (DT, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Breakfast: 6.30am -10.30am
Lunch: 11.30am to 3pm
Dinner: 6pm to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street. Turn left onto Club Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight down Pagoda Street to North Bridge Road. Cross the road and walk to Mohd Ali Lane. Walk down Mohd Ali Lane. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Berlin65 @ Stanley Street - Serving Up an Authentic Experience from the Understated, Unassuming and 'Underground' City of Berlin

Nestled in the heart of Telok Ayer, Berlin65 stands out as a unique establishment that celebrates Berlin's multicultural food scene. With a fusion of German classics, Asian street food, and Middle-Eastern dishes, dining here promises a convivial experience. Co-founded by Chef Stephan Zoisl, currently leading Chef's Table by Chef Stephan in Singapore, and Lorenz Raich, Group Executive Chef at Brtzeit, Berlin65 offers a diverse and authentic experience of Berline food.

Watermelon & Cherry Tomatoes Salad 4.2/5

To start, the Watermelon & Cherry Tomatoes Salad ($18) presents a refreshing medley of diced watermelon, cherry tomatoes, sliced onions, basil, mint, and parsley. The addition of feta cheese adds a touch of saltiness, while a vibrant drizzle of olive oil and lemon ties it all together, creating a harmonious blend of flavours.

Konigsberger Kopse 4/5

For a hearty and homely dish, the Konigsberger Kopse ($16) delights with tender veal and beef meatballs bathed in a traditional white roux infused with tangy capers.

Simit Bread 4/5

A first-time encounter with Simit Bread ($4.50) reveals a Turkish delight dusted with sesame, perfectly paired with a spicy tomato dip. Its soft and chewy texture, reminiscent of a bagel, makes for a delightful indulgence.

Currywurst 4.2/5

No Berlin experience is complete without the iconic Currywurst ($16), featuring plump pork sausages smothered in a rich, homemade sauce of German-style curry powder, tomato paste, and ketchup — an absolute treat for sausage lovers.

The Banh Mi 3.5/5

The 1972 Berlin Original 3/5

The Doner Kebab, a beloved street food in Berlin, takes centre stage in the Banh Mi ($18) and The 1972 Berlin Original ($18). The well-marinated chicken, cooked on a vertical rotisserie, is sandwiched between pita bread, complemented by an assortment of vegetables. While both versions impress, the Banh Mi stands out with its piquant flavors comprising pate, pickles, sriracha, and coriander.

Adana Kebab - Mixed Beef & Lamb 3.5/5

Another highlight is the Adana Kebab ($26), featuring mixed beef and lamb hand-minced meat shaped onto skewers and grilled to perfection. Served with fragrant basmati rice, shredded onions, and pickles, the lamb variant steals the show with its juicy tenderness.

Berliner 4.2/5

To round off the meal, the Berliner ($8) offers a classic German donut experience with a choice of indulgent fillings such as vanilla bean custard, strawberry jam, or apricot jam. Dusted with a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar, this sweet treat is the perfect ending to a satisfying journey to the streets of Berlin.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Berlin65
30 Stanley Street
Singapore 068739
Tel: +65 9788 4230
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11:30am - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:

1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Walk along the covered walkway until the junction of Mccallum Street and Telok Ayer Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street and then left onto Stanley Street. Journey time is about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to junction of Telok Ayer Street and Upper Cross Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Turn left again onto Boon Tat Street and make a right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]