Province @ Joo Chiat Road - A Sumptuous Exploration of Southeast Asian Summer Flavours

Returning to Province at Joo Chiat Road to experience their new Summer menu was a delight, especially after the impressive Autumn tasting we enjoyed before. Chef-owner Law Jia-Jun continues to demonstrate his creativity and skill in crafting dishes inspired by Southeast Asian ingredients, flavours, and techniques, delivering an exceptional dining experience. This 7-course dinner ($148++) is a seasonal journey that showcases the beauty and diversity of regional flavours in a refined and elevated way.

Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet 4.2/5

Our meal began with a couple of delicate snacks, starting with the Caviar & Indonesian Flower Crab Tartlet. The natural sweetness of the flower crab paired wonderfully with the briny pop of the caviar, creating a harmonious bite. The tartlet provided a satisfying crunch that contrasted beautifully with the tender, flavourful filling, setting the tone for the creativity we would see throughout the evening.

Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower 4/5

Next was the Panipuri with Horse Mackerel & Ginger Flower, a bite-sized marvel inspired by local flavours. The bold inclusion of ginger flower evoked the flavours of rojak, and the crispy shell offered a pleasing contrast to the tender mackerel. This dish was a perfect blend of textures and an exciting tribute to familiar Southeast Asian ingredients in a new format.

Lobster Croustade 4.2/5

The last of our opening snacks was the Lobster Croustade. Presented in a house-made kueh pie tee shell infused with seaweed, this luxe twist on the traditional snack featured a filling of lobster and crispy broccoli for added texture. The croustade was garnished with delicate flower petals from Thailand, making this elegant dish as visually captivating as it was delicious.

Momotaro Tomato & Shiro Sorbet 4.8/5

Our first course was the Momotaro Tomato topped with Shiro Sorbet, a refreshing and umami-filled dish. The Japanese Momotaro tomato, sourced from Cameron Highlands, was beautifully sweet. It was peeled, stuffed with confit tomatoes, and cooked down to intensify the flavour, then topped with shiro sorbet and puffed quinoa for added crunch. The sorbet’s savoury notes paired seamlessly with the tomato, creating a balanced and layered bite.

Squid from Jurong Fishery Port 4.5/5

The Squid from Jurong Fishery Port was another unique and flavourful dish. Tender and slightly charred, the green-eye squid lay hidden beneath a silky Beurre Blanc sauce. Sambal mata added a touch of heat, while fermented kedondong introduced a subtle acidity, enhancing the dish's complexity without overpowering the delicate squid.

White Trevally with Seaweed XO 4/5

Next came the White Trevally with Seaweed XO, showcasing another unconventional fish. The white trevally had a smooth, buttery texture, and its lean, firm flesh was enhanced by the house-made seaweed XO sauce, which lent a local sambal stingray-like taste. This dish truly captured a sense of place, marrying local seafood traditions with sophisticated techniques.

Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork 4.2/5

The Charcoal-grilled Aged Sarawak Pork was a revelation. Grilled over coals and smoked with hay, this aged pork had a perfect char and deep smoky aroma while remaining tender and juicy. It was served with edamame, mustard, and a rich pork wine reduction jus, creating a well-rounded dish that was both hearty and complex.

La Mian with Clams and Okra 4.5/5

A comforting bowl of La Mian with Clams and Okra followed, a nod to Chef Law's weekend family meals. Made with house-made noodles, grilled okra, and clams from the Philippines, the dish was bathed in a chicken consommé infused with tropical flavours from lemongrass, kaffir lime, and Vietnamese lime. This simple yet vibrant soup provided a soothing transition from the heavier dishes, signalling the end of the savoury courses.

Osmanthus & Wild Sumac 4.2/5

The dessert course began with Osmanthus Aiyu Jelly paired with compressed melon for a burst of sweetness. A wild sumac granita added refreshing acidity, while Ulam Raja introduced subtle earthy undertones that balanced the sour notes. This multi-dimensional dessert was a symphony of flavours, evoking the lightness and freshness of summer.

Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon 4/5

The final dessert was a delightful Grilled Pineapple and Millet Syphon. The pineapple, compressed with gula melaka and grilled over charcoal, had a beautiful caramelised sweetness. It was paired with millet foam and coconut yoghurt ice cream, which added a creamy and tangy component, rounding out the dish with a tropical flair.

Province's Summer menu is a beautiful homage to Southeast Asia, highlighting seasonal ingredients with creativity and respect for tradition. Chef Law's passion for reimagining local flavours shines through in every dish, providing a unique dining experience that feels both familiar and innovative. Province's summer menu is not to be missed for anyone seeking a refined yet playful exploration of regional flavours.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Province
(Located inside 808 Eating House)
153 Joo Chiat Road
Singapore 427431
Tel: +65 8075 1896
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Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line), Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Thu-Sat (Lunch)
1st Seating: 12.30pm

Tue-Sat (Dinner)
1st Seating : 6.15pm
2nd Seating : 8.30pm

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]

2) Alight at Paya Lebar MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to Sims Ave. Cross the road and walk to Tanjong Katong Road. Walk down Tanjong Katong Road to Geylang Road. Cross the road, turn left and walk down Geylang Road. Walk to Joo Chiat Road. Turn right onto Joo Chiat Road. Walk down Joo Chiat Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

Crystal Jade Palace @ Takashimaya - Limited-time Special Menu of Reimagined Local Favourites to Celebrate National Day

With Singapore's National Day approaching, Crystal Jade's various restaurant concepts are proud to launch a limited-time special menu of 'Local-inspired Delights' (本地经典风味菜肴) dishes available from now to 30 September 2024. The chefs have meticulously crafted this menu to pay homage to local dishes and flavours. At Crystal Jade Palace, featured dishes include Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup, Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf, and more.

Other Crystal Jade concepts, such as Crystal Jade Golden Palace, Crystal Jade Pavilion, Crystal Jade Hong Kong Kitchen, and Crystal Jade La Mian Xiao Long Bao, will each offer their own special reimagined dishes. During this period, Crystal Jade Jadeite members and UOB Cardmembers can enjoy 20% off all promotional dishes (excluding dessert) when dining in.

Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup 4/5

First, we had an elevated kueh pie tee - Chilli Crab in Golden Kueh Pie Tee Cup ($18.80). The crispy pastry shell was filled with crab meat shreds in a tangy and spicy chilli crab sauce.

Double-boiled Fish Maw with Sea Whelk, Black Garlic & Chicken Soup in Coconut 4.5/5

Next, we moved to a nourishing bowl of soup. The Double-boiled Fish Maw with Sea Whelk, Black Garlic & Chicken Soup in Coconut ($42 per person) was brimming with many ingredients. The heartwarming soup had a depth of black garlic and sweetness from red dates.

Seafood Medley in Lime Leaf & Chilli Crab Sauce served with Golden Mantou 4.2/5

Enjoy the local favourite chilli crab without the mess. Crystal Jade’s Seafood Medley in Lime Leaf & Chilli Crab Sauce served with Golden Mantou ($68 for regular) features scallops, mussels and prawns cooked in a rich chilli crab sauce.

The mantous were fried to the best crunch, ideal for mopping up the spicy-sweet sauce.

Sambal French Bean & Eggplant with Crispy Silver Bait 4.2/5

Our vegetable dish was the Sambal French Bean & Eggplant with Crispy Silver Bait ($26 for regular). The french bean and strips of eggplant are sautéed in a slick homemade sambal sauce that perfectly coated every vegetable, while the silver baits were fried to a perfect crunch.

Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf 4.2/5

The Hokkien Live Prawn Noodle with Pork Lardon in Opeh Leaf ($32) easily won the hearts of my dining companions and me. The noodles were well-textured and not simmered too soft, paired with prawns simmered in a robust prawn and pork lard stock. Make sure to mix in their addictive house-made belacan, which is also sold in bottles at the reception counter.

Durian Chendol in Coconut 3.5/5

Our first dessert was a tropical-themed Durian Chendol in Coconut ($18.80 per person). The base includes typical chendol ingredients such as atap chee, red beans, and pandan jelly, topped with coconut ice cream and D24 durian pulp. This rendition was more of a 'dry' chendol, with much less coconut milk and ice.

I ♥ SG Red Ruby with Coconut Pudding 2/5

Decked in our national colours, the I ♥ SG Red Ruby with Coconut Pudding ($8.90 for four pieces) was created to pay homage to Singapore and the upcoming National Day. Unfortunately, we found it slightly bland, and its texture was a tad too sticky.

To make reservations, visit the restaurant website at www.crystaljade.com/reservation.

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.


Crystal Jade Palace
Takashimaya Shopping Centre
#04-19
391 Orchard Road
Singapore 238872
Tel: +65 9017 5423
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Nearest MRT: Orchard MRT (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 10.30am - 3.30pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Follow the walkway through Wisma Atria to Takashimaya. Continue walking straight at Ngee Ann City until destination. Journey about 8 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B to Orchard Road. Head west or turn left onto Orchard Road against the flow of traffic. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]

QIN (亲) Restaurant & Bar @ The Clan Hotel - Where Heritage Meets Gastronomy

Located at The Clan Hotel, QIN (亲) Restaurant & Bar, helmed by Executive Chef Maksym Chukanov, offers a dining experience that seamlessly marries modern European techniques with Asian flavours. The restaurant provides both lunch and dinner set menus, and I had the privilege of experiencing the exquisite 6-course dinner menu ($198++). There's also an option to add wine pairing for $98++ for those interested.

Milk Bread, Gula Melaka, Whipped Brown Butter 4.5/5

Our dinner began with a complimentary homemade Milk Bread, beautifully finished with a luscious gula melaka glaze. Paired with velvety whipped brown butter, this bread offered a tantalising introduction to our meal.

White Asparagus, Chervil, Yuzu 4/5

The first trio of appetisers kicked off with White Asparagus, Chervil, Yuzu. The seasonal white asparagus heads were lightly seasoned and topped with a delightful egg yolk jam, enhanced by a burst of yuzu zest. The dish was light, crunchy, and full of vibrant flavours.

Kueh Pie Tee, Smoked Petuna Trout, Horseradish 4.2/5

Next up was a modern take on the traditional Kueh Pie Tee. It was filled with smoked Petuna trout belly cured with kelp salt and paired with freshly grated horseradish, adding a spicy kick. This innovative dish provided a wonderful blend of textures and flavours.

Hamachi Toro, Wasabi, Creme Fraiche 4.5/5

The final appetiser was Hamachi Toro, mixed with Japanese mayo and yuzu kosho, nestled within a homemade rye flour crust and topped with crispy ginger. This dish was a harmonious symphony of textures and flavours, creating a delightful experience on the palate.

Kagoshima Yellow Tail, Kohlrabi, Cucumber Ponzu 4.2/5

The main course began with Kagoshima Yellow Tail, Kohlrabi, Cucumber Ponzu. Tender slices of yellowtail loin cured in kombu seaweed were topped with diced cucumber and sliced radish, offering a refreshing crunch. A drizzle of cucumber juice and ponzu sauce provided a bright and tangy finish.

'Xing Ren Dou Fu', White Asparagus, Nomad Caviar, Almond 4.5/5

Inspired by the popular Chinese almond cream dessert, Chef Maksym's interpretation of 'Xing Ren Dou Fu' featured sautéed White Asparagus, a luscious white asparagus mousse infused with almonds, crowned with caviar, and drizzled with almond milk and hazelnut oil sauce. The dish was a satisfying blend of textures and flavours.

Tom Yum, Danish Langoustine, Calamansi 5/5

A signature dish at QIN, the Tom Yum, Danish Langoustine, Calamansi, featured Danish langoustine tails grilled over binchotan, imparting a mouthwatering aroma and beautiful char. The accompanying tom yum-inspired broth, crafted from the essence of the langoustine, was rich and complex, awakening the senses with its stimulating flavours.

Aged Quail, Spring Alliums, Scallions 'Hua Juan', Szechuan Pepper 4.5/5

Wrapping up the mains was the Aged Quail, Spring Alliums, Scallions 'Hua Juan', Szechuan Pepper. The Australian quail, aged in-house for a week, was enjoyed in two ways: deboned quail legs dipped in kecap manis and covered in puffed quinoa and tender quail breast paired with wild garlic leaves and green onions in a bold Szechuan pepper sauce. The accompanying fluffy Chinese steamed bao, seasoned with green onions, was perfect on its own or for mopping up the delicious sauce.

Ice Kachang, Rhubarb, Mascarpone 4/5

As a palate cleanser, the Ice Kachang, Rhubarb, Mascarpone was a tangy and sweet dessert featuring refreshing shaved ice, whipped mascarpone, and fresh rhubarb compote. This dish provided a delightful break after all the savoury dishes.

Japanese Strawberry, Hokkaido Milk, Soya Sauce 4.2/5

For a sweet ending, the Japanese Strawberry, Hokkaido Milk, Soya Sauce offered a harmonious blend of creamy sweetness and fruity goodness, enhanced by the rich flavours of a sweet Japanese shoyu. The Hokkaido milk sorbet paired beautifully with the Japanese strawberry jam.

Pineapple Tart 'Cloud' 4/5

Exclusive to the 6-course menu was the whimsical Pineapple Tart 'Cloud'. Pineapple puree was transformed into frozen orbs using liquid nitrogen. Popping the whole orb into your mouth, it dissolved, reminiscent of a tropical paradise and providing a truly unique and delightful end to the meal.

QIN (亲) Restaurant & Bar offers a unique and memorable dining experience, skillfully blending modern European techniques with Asian flavours. Each course of the 6-course dinner menu was thoughtfully crafted, providing a delightful journey of flavours and textures. Whether you're a fan of traditional dishes with a modern twist or looking for a unique culinary adventure, QIN is a must-visit destination.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


QIN Restaurant & Bar
The Clan Hotel
Level 4 & 5
10 Cross Street
Singapore 048417
Tel: +65 6980 3535
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

The Masses @ Arcade The Capitol Kemposki - Relocated to a More Centralised Place While Maintaining the Pricing Affordable

The Masses by Chef Dylan Ong has relocated from Beach Road to the prestigious Arcade at the Capitol Kempinski Hotel. This new chapter introduces a refreshed menu that marries contemporary French cuisine with bold Asian elements, delivering a unique Franco-Asian dining experience. The menu offers a cuisine with a French core harmoniously layered with Asian elements.

Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee 4.2/5

We began our culinary journey with the Squid Ink Kueh Pie Tee ($12.90/4pc). Unlike the traditional version stuffed with cooked jicama, Chef Dylan elevates this snack by infusing the shell with squid ink and topping it with fresh crab meat. The sweetness of the crab pairs beautifully with the savoury crunch of the shell, making for a delightful start.

Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet 4/5

Next, we tried the Smoked Pu Er Caviar & Beignet ($9.90/2pc). These fluffy beignets are filled with yuzu creme and topped with Avruga caviar, which has been smoked in-house with pu er tea. The tea's subtle aroma and the caviar burst create an elegant and unique flavour profile.

Steak Tartare 4/5

The Steak Tartare ($26.90) here is a symphony of flavours and textures. Served with sour cream, wasabi, mustard, charred onion, and pickled chye sim and topped with fried garlic chips, shallot chips, and caviar, it offers a rich and complex taste. Spreading the tartare on the accompanying shiso Kueh Loyang adds a crispy contrast that enhances each bite.

Salad Nicoise 3.5/5

A refreshing and healthy option is the Salad Nicoise ($23.90). This vibrant dish features gem lettuce, seasonal vegetables, tomatoes, olives, and aburi swordfish, all dressed in a tuna emulsion and topped with a soft-boiled egg. It perfectly balances flavours and textures, making it a standout salad.

Moules Marinieres 4/5

The Moules Marinieres ($16.90) is an innovative twist on the classic chawanmushi. Beneath the uni sabayon sprinkled with Espelette pepper lies a soft and creamy steamed egg custard with blue mussels. It's a delightful mix of textures and flavours paired with a crispy rice paper cracker.

Wagyu Beef Tongue 4/5

The Wagyu Beef Tongue served atop a crispy scallion pancake, is layered with red wine onion marmalade, pickled mustard seeds, pickled onions, shiso leaf, Dijon mustard, and lemon vinaigrette. The sweetness of the marmalade and the sharpness of the pickled elements create a harmonious balance, making this dish a highlight.

Stuffed Zucchini Flower 3/5

The Stuffed Zucchini Flower ($29.90), air-flown from Holland, is filled with mozzarella cheese and drizzled with lavender honey. Though the flower-to-cheese ratio felt a bit off, the lemon and caper aioli lifted the dish, adding a zesty finish.

Lemon Sole Meuniere 4/5

The Lemon Sole Meuniere ($39.90) makes a grand entry with a whole sole fish served in an "Asian Grenobloise" sauce topped with coldwater shrimp and sliced almonds. The unique twist of salted vegetables blended into the sauce offers a nod to the traditional Teochew steamed fish.

Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken 4.5/5

A favourite is the Dry Aged Spiced Roasted Chicken ($21.90/half). The tender chicken served with parsnip puree, chilli jam, and charred kailan in a soy sauce chicken jus, stands out for its flavorful skin and well-balanced accompaniments.

Duck Confit 4.8/5

The Duck Confit ($21.90), a signature dish from Chef Dylan's early career, is served atop rice noodles with local mushrooms and mirabelle plum vinaigrette, finished with house-cured egg yolk. This dish reinterprets the local moonlight Hor Fun, adding a nostalgic yet innovative touch.

Steak Au Poivre 5/5

The Steak Au Poivre ($29.90) features 2GR Australian Wagyu seared and served in a browned butter sauce accented by lemon and capers. The tender shoulder cut is packed with robust flavour, and the black pepper sauce is truly the soul of this dish.

Corn & Cereal 4.5/5

For dessert, we had the Corn & Cereal ($13.90), a warm toffee and corn pudding served in whiskey caramel sauce, topped with cereal and housemade cereal ice cream. It's not overly sweet and offers a delightful play of textures and flavours.

Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT 4.2/5

The Truffle & Tulakalum, TNT ($15.90) is a savory-sweet chocolate-based dessert. Housemade black truffle ice cream is paired with Valrhona Tulakalum chocolate ganache and piped chocolate mousse and finished with shaved black truffle, sea salt, and lemon verbena oil. This dessert is a must-try for chocolate lovers.

The Masses at The Capitol Kempinski Hotel offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience with its Franco-Asian cuisine. Chef Dylan Ong's innovative take on classic dishes and his use of premium ingredients make this a must-visit destination. The varied menu ensures there is something for everyone, and I'm excited to see how the menu evolves over time.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Masses
Arcade @ The Capitol Kempinski
13 Stamford Road
#01-84
Singapore 178905
Tel: +65 6518 4988
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 1130am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]