Showing posts with label Lamb Rack. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Lamb Rack. Show all posts

Saturday, October 19, 2024

27 Degrees West @ Orchard Road - Mumbai's Millon-followers Celebrity Chef Varun Inamdar Brings a Melting Pot of Indian Flavours to Singapore

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Mumbai's celebrated celebrity chef, Varun Inamdar, popularly known as "Mumbai's Chocolate Prince," has opened his first Indian restaurant outside India — 27 Degrees West. Nestled in Singapore, the restaurant offers a unique culinary experience that blends traditional Indian flavours with contemporary techniques. The name "27 Degrees West" pays homage to India's geographic positioning relative to Singapore. With dishes that reflect the rich diversity of Indian cuisine, 27 Degrees West delivers a memorable dining experience.

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Chicken 65 4.8/5

We kicked off our meal with a classic — Chicken 65 ($15), a beloved South Indian dish. Tender chicken chunks were seasoned with an aromatic blend of spices. Though it might seem like a simple chicken dish, the depth of flavours and the expert seasoning elevated it to something much more special, making it a solid start to the meal.

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Togarashi Tossed Bhindi Jaipuri 4/5

The Togarashi Tossed Bhindi Jaipuri ($15) was unexpectedly addictive! This dish is a modern take on Jaipur's famous chaats, featuring crispy fried okra sprinkled with a dash of shichimi togarashi. The highlight was the accompanying 72-hour fermented beetroot chutney ketchup, which added a zesty, tangy depth of flavour. I loved the chutney so much that I wished they sold it by the bottle!

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Crabmeat Thecha Thermidor 4.5/5

A crowd favourite, the Crabmeat Thecha Thermidor ($35), truly showcased Chef Varun's philosophy of blending traditional Indian flavours with modern techniques. This luxurious dish features fresh crabmeat from India's coastline, paired with Thecha, a popular chilli-garlic condiment from India. The dish was rich yet perfectly balanced, and the bold flavours worked harmoniously.

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Bagara Baingan 4.2/5

The Bagara Baingan ($28), originating from the royal kitchens of Hyderabad, is a dish that surprised me in the best way possible. Smoky eggplants are served in a creamy, nutty sauce alongside crispy starfruit chips for a bit of crunch. It's a unique dish I had never tried before, but it opened my eyes to new possibilities for eggplant. It's definitely one to remember!

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Smoked Lamb Rack, Beliram 4/5

Next, we had the Smoked Lamb Rack, Beliram ($55) — a nod to Maharaja Ranjit Singh Ji's legendary royal dish, 'Gosht Beliram'. The lamb rack was marinated with Kolhapuri masala and roasted to a tender, smoky perfection over an open flame. It was served with a rich Punjabi Beliram gravy paired beautifully with the perfectly cooked lamb.

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The 'Varun Inamdar' Butter Chicken 4.5/5

Perhaps the most anticipated dish of the evening was The 'Varun Inamdar' Butter Chicken ($29). This is Chef Varun's signature recipe, popularised by millions of views on his YouTube channel, now available right here in Singapore. The chicken was incredibly succulent and simmered to absorb the creamy, tangy, and rich flavours of the butter chicken gravy. It lived up to the hype.

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Assorted Naan 3/5

To soak up the rich gravies of the meal, we ordered the Assorted Naan ($6), which came in various flavours such as plain, garlic, butter, cheese, black pepper, and even truffle! It is the perfect vehicle for the rich sauces that accompany the dishes.

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Jowar Khichdi 4.2/5

A personal favourite of mine was the Jowar Khichdi ($25), a unique "no rice" porridge made with nutrient-dense millets and desi ghee. The dish, inspired by Chef Varun's grandmother, was both hearty and comforting, with layers of complex spice that made each bite more intriguing than the last. It's a dish you could enjoy on a cold, rainy day or when you crave something warm and nourishing.

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Coconut Kulfi 4/5

For dessert, we indulged in the Coconut Kulfi ($15), a nostalgic treat that combines creamy coconut ice cream with grilled pineapple and pomegranate molasses. The addition of passion fruit added a refreshing tang, balancing the sweetness of the kulfi perfectly. A lovely dessert to end the meal.

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Chocolate Mess 4/5

Lastly, we couldn't pass up the Chocolate Mess ($15), a dessert that Chef Varun famously created for the Obamas. This decadent dish features a rich dark chocolate ganache mixed with tart cranberries and raspberries. The result is an indulgent yet well-balanced dessert that any chocolate lover would adore.

27 Degrees West truly lives up to its promise of offering a melting pot of Indian flavours with Chef Varun Inamdar's signature touch. The menu is a delightful journey through both classic and contemporary Indian cuisine, with some dishes reinvented to surprise and delight. Whether it is the tender Smoked Lamb Rack, the comforting Butter Chicken, or the refreshing Coconut Kulfi, 27 Degrees West delivers on both flavour and experience. For anyone looking to explore Indian cuisine with a modern twist, this restaurant is worth a visit.

Note: This is an invited tasting


27 Degrees West
362 Orchard Road
Singapore 238887
Tel: +65 91000949
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Housr:
Sun-Thu: 1130am - 11pm
Fri-Sat: 1130am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Follow the walkway to Shaw House. At Shaw House, go to ground level. Walk to Orchard Road. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutres. [Map]

Friday, July 19, 2024

One Morning Catch Seafood (一品鲜 活海鲜) @ KINEX - A Seafood Haven Relocated from Bartley to Tanjong Katong

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Previously located in an industrial area in Bartley, The Morning Catch Seafood found its new home within the KINEX mall, serving fresh live seafood at reasonable prices. As we stepped into the restaurant, we were captivated by the fresh, live seafood tanks on full display for the customers. Interestingly, many seafood options here are priced per piece, unlike most seafood restaurants that charge by weight. Lobster, abalone, scallops, Dungeness crab, and more - if you can name it, they have it.

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Lobster “Sha Cha” Vermicelli 4/5

The showstopper to kick off our meal was the Lobster "Sha Cha" Vermicelli ($198), cooked in a rich broth reminiscent of lobster bisque. The lobster was incredibly fresh and meaty. Although the "Sha Cha" flavour in the broth was subtle, and the thin vermicelli could have absorbed the broth better for a more flavourful bite, we still thoroughly enjoyed this dish.

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White Pepper Collagen Soup Vermicelli with Red Flower Crab 4.2/5

Similar to the lobster dish, the White Pepper Collagen Soup Vermicelli with Red Flower Crab ($78) is cooked in a rich collagen soup infused with white pepper. This time, it's paired with Red Flower Crab, which is less meaty but noticeably sweeter than the lobster. The white pepper flavour is distinctive and aromatic without being spicy. You can also choose other types of shellfish to be cooked in this flavourful broth.

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Golden Collagen Soup with Star Red Grouper 4.2/5

Another soupy dish we enjoyed was the Golden Collagen Soup with Star Red Grouper ($88). The silky-smooth meat had been de-boned for easy consumption, which we truly appreciated. Despite its name, the golden collagen soup tasted richer than Suan Cai Yu. Sweet potato noodles and enoki mushrooms nestled underneath were a delightful addition to the slightly spicy, rich broth.

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Salt & Pepper Mantis Prawn 4/5

Next, we have the Salt & Pepper Mantis Prawn ($12.50/pc) garnished with bits of fried garlic that elevate its flavour. Despite the challenge of peeling them, the Mantis Prawns were exceptionally sweet and chewy!

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Hometown BBQ Lamb Rack 3/5

They offer a variety of meats in addition to seafood. We tried their Hometown BBQ Lamb Rack ($38), seasoned with a distinctive cumin spice. While we didn't find it exceptionally unique and quite fatty/oily for multiple pieces, the manager assured us it might just be this particular rack. Nonetheless, it was nicely grilled with a crispy crust.

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Salted Egg Chicken 3/5

Our last dish was the Salted Egg Chicken ($16), a Singaporean favourite. The salted egg sauce was nicely balanced — sweet and savoury with the fragrance of curry leaves. This dish pairs perfectly with rice. While it may not be unique, it is definitely a must-order for salted egg lovers or kids at the dinner table.

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The Morning Catch offers a total of 7 beautifully decorated private rooms suitable for all occasions. The smaller rooms can accommodate up to six seated guests, while the largest room can host 22 seated guests and up to 40 guests with a very reasonable minimum spend of $1988.

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Two private rooms come equipped with karaoke systems for you to sing your heart out. The largest room even features a 'living room' area with a comfortable sofa and an automated mahjong table! Open until 1am, The Morning Catch is the perfect venue for your next family party.

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


The Morning Catch Seafood
一品鲜活海鲜
KINEX
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-21
Singapore 437157
Tel: +65 88580101
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1am

Direction:
1) 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 Kinex Mall. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Monday, March 18, 2024

Eden Restaurant @ Pullman Singapore Orchard - Vibrant Asian Flavours with Contemporary Interpretations by New Executive Chef Martin Tan

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Eden Restaurant at Pullman Singapore Orchard has recently unveiled an updated menu thoughtfully designed by its newly appointed Executive Chef, Chef Martin Tan. This refreshed culinary offering spans from inviting small plates and bao buns to more substantial sharing platters, maintaining the vibrancy of Asian flavours with contemporary interpretations.

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Sticky Pork Belly 4.5/5

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Kam Heong Grilled Octopus 3.5/5

We had Kam Heong Grilled Octopus ($32) and Sticky Pork Belly Bao Bun ($18/2 pcs) to start. The latter exceeded expectations, providing a more satisfying experience. The pork belly showcased an ideal balance of fats and meat, achieving a tender texture that was spot on. Its braised flavour was quite on point, particularly when combined with the layer of salted vegetables within the bun. On the other hand, while the grilled octopus was skillfully prepared, the subtle Kam Heong glaze failed to make a distinct statement in the overall dish.

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River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels 4/5

On the menu are two wok dishes for sharing. We had the bright-looking River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels ($44) in Tangy Coconut Gravy, served with a Charcoal You Tiao. The standout element was the vibrant coconut gravy, boasting a delightful acidity that enticed us to savour each spoonful. While the prawns and scallops were expertly seared, a slightly firmer texture of the prawns would have enhanced the overall experience.

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Pan-Fried Black Cod 4.8/5

For mains, Pan-Fried Black Cod ($42) with Thunder Tea. As a Hakka, I must commend the fine execution of the Thunder Tea, particularly with the addition of roasted peanuts — a hallmark of a traditional Thunder Rice Tea dish. The innovative pairing of the tea with cod fish was a delightful surprise, as the tea's astringency and the cod's richness complemented each other flawlessly. The cod, adorned with crisped skin, added an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

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Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack 3/5

On the other hand, the Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack ($48) could have been more impressive. The standout feature for me was the tangy Sesame-Fermented Sauce, which skillfully complements the inherent gamey taste of the lamb. However, the expected presence of the Hae Bee Hiam glaze was somewhat lacking. Perhaps sous vide preparation wasn't the ideal way to achieve precise doneness, and the overall texture of the lamb left a bit to be desired.

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Coconut Frozen Parfait 3/5, Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly 3/5

For desserts, we had Coconut Frozen Parfait ($16) with Pineapple Nage and Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly ($16). The parfait was interesting, with a sprinkle of pink peppercorn, which lent a peppery fragrance and nuanced flavour. However, using riper and juicier pineapples instead of our unripened ones would have elevated its tastiness. The latter was refreshing with Kaffir Lime and Mango cubes thought a reduction in sweetness would have been ideal.

Photograph and written 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.


Eden Restaurant
Pullman Singapore Orchard
Level 4
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8888
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed & PH: 6:30am - 11pm
Thu-Sat 7 Eve of PH: 6:30am - 12midnight
Sun - Wed & Public Holiday: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Orchard Road. Turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Restaurant Gaig @ Stanley Road - An Immersive Catalan Fare With New Chef’s Menu

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Nestled in the heart of Singapore's bustling dining precinct, Restaurant Gaig brings the vibrant flavours of Catalan cuisine to the city. As the first international outpost of the original Michelin-starred restaurant in Barcelona, helmed by renowned chef Carles Gaig, Restaurant Gaig in Singapore is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Catalonia. Operated by chef Gaig's daughter, Núria Gibert, this establishment continues the family's tradition of excellence in gastronomy, spanning five generations.

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At the kitchen's helm is Executive Chef Marti Carlos, who honed his skills under the tutelage of Chef Gaig himself. With a deep-rooted respect for Catalan culinary traditions, Executive Chef Marti pays homage to the region's vibrant culture and heritage while infusing his dishes with a sophisticated flair. To celebrate the magical Catalonia Summer, Restaurant Gaig presents a new Chef's Menu ($180++ per diner) that promises an immersive dining experience.

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The Thinnest Fuet Sandwich, Sunday's Vermut, Surf and Turf Taco 4/5

The gastronomic journey begins with a trio of canapés inspired by Catalan's classic snacks and Sunday social traditions. The Thinnest Fuet Sandwich showcases a crisp and thin filo pastry filled with savoury pork cold cuts and grated tomatoes—a nostalgic favourite from Chef Marti's childhood.

Sunday's Vermut pays tribute to the Spanish tradition of enjoying vermouth with light snacks like potato chips and olives. At Restaurant Gaig, cockle, vermouth, and olive pearls are served in a fried potato shell, offering a burst of flavour in a single bite.

Another delightful creation is the Surf and Turf Taco, featuring shredded lamb ossobuco served in a shrimp fritter "taco" shell, complemented by cured shallots, Lyo corn, and green Mojo Verde dressing.

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Homemade Raviolis 5/5

Continuing the culinary journey, the Homemade Raviolis delight with roasted lamb shoulder and scampi broth. The tender ravioli, stuffed with minced lamb leg shoulder, is beautifully accompanied by langoustine consommé, creating a harmonious balance of flavours.

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Frit Menorqui 4.2/5

The Frit Menorquí pays homage to the Balearic Islands, presenting pan-seared lobster with sofrito and lobster bisque-infused egg yolk—a dish traditionally enjoyed during the summer months.

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Glazed Sweetbreads and Artichoke 3.8/5

For those seeking a nose-to-tail experience, the Glazed Sweetbreads with Artichoke and Chips showcases creamy lamb sweetbreads paired with parsnip purée, glazed artichokes, and chips. It is an exquisite combination of textures and flavours.

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Lamb Rack 4.8/5

The Chef's Menu also features a succulent Lamb Rack with idiazabal cheese sauce, where the buttery and smoky notes of the farmhouse sheep cheese elevate the roasted lamb.

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Pre-Dessert 4/5

A pre-dessert of Smoked Chocolate with Strawberry and Basil delights the senses, with strawberry and basil ice cream accompanied by smoked chocolate ganache, chocolate crumble, and white chocolate tuile.

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Orange Dessert 4.2/5

Concluding the remarkable culinary experience is a dessert that pairs Orange Sorbet with carrot sabayon, mandarin carrot sorbet, egg yolk ice cream, orange pearls, and sugar bits. This inventive creation showcases the versatility of oranges in various forms, leaving a bright and refreshing note on the palate.

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Restaurant Gaig offers an impeccable display of the best of Catalan culinary traditions. From the cherished family recipes passed down through generations to the innovative twists introduced by Chef Marti Carlos, every dish celebrates Catalonia's rich gastronomic heritage. Immerse yourself in a truly memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Catalonia at Restaurant Gaig.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Gaig
16 Stanley Street
Singapore 068735
Tel: +65 62212134
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to Telok Ayer Street. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street, walk to Boon Tat Street. Turn left onto Boon Tat Street. Turn right onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Turn left onto Telok Ayer Street. Walk to Mccallum Street. Turn right onto Mccallum Street. Turn left onto Stanley Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

The Astor Grill @ St. Regis Singapore - A Pop-up Restaurant Inspired By The Heritage of St. Regis, New York

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Nestled within the St. Regis Singapore, The Astor Grill is a pop-up dining experience that promises an unforgettable culinary journey from 1 June to 31 August 2023. This exclusive pop-up brings together premium cuts from renowned artisan suppliers and introduces bespoke dining rituals from the esteemed House of Astor in New York. Available for a la carte lunch and dinner at Brasserie Les Saveurs, The St. Regis Singapore, The Astor Grill offers a truly exquisite experience.

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Assorted Bread Basket

To kickstart the gastronomic adventure, diners are treated to a complimentary Assorted Bread Basket featuring a delightful selection of Sourdough, Curry Leaves, and Seaweed-infused bread.

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Amuse Bouche

The culinary journey begins with a tantalizing Amuse Bouche—grilled sourdough topped with Tomato and Iberico Ham. While a small morsel, it serves as a flavorful teaser to awaken the taste buds.

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Traditional Beef Tartare 4/5

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King Crab Salad 4.2/5

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Grilled King Prawn 4.2/5

Impeccably crafted starters grace the menu, including the Traditional Beef Tartare ($30), King Crab Salad ($52), and Tiger Prawns 'A la Plancha' with Avocado, Peach, and Basil ($39). Each dish offers a unique combination of flavours and textures, making it difficult to choose a favourite. However, the grilled tiger prawns stand out with their sweet succulence, complemented by the fruity peach and creamy avocado.

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Tomahawk Australia Angus Grass Fed 4.2/5

From the signature sharing cuts menu, we had the 1.4kg Australian Grass Fed Angus Tomahawk ($290) grilled over the custom-built parilla grill. The whole tomahawk will be presented on a steak trolley and carved tableside. Beautifully marbled texture, tender and succulent. A rich and robust full-bodied flavour enhanced with the rosemary aroma.

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Striploin Japan Full Blood Wagyu A5 4.5/5, Bavette Australian Angus 4.8/5

For discerning palates, The Astor Grill offers artisanal cuts and monthly exclusives. We had the pleasure of savouring the Striploin Japan Full Blood Wagyu A5 500 Days Grain Fed ($170) and Bavette Australian Angus 200 Days Barley Fed ($62). Our table was divided in preferences, with some favouring the Japanese Wagyu for its exceptionally high marbling content, resulting in buttery tenderness. On the other hand, I found the Bavette more appealing, with its well-rounded beefy flavour and a slightly firmer bite, striking a perfect balance between tenderness and texture.

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Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb 4.2/5

The menu also features non-steak options, such as the Oven Roasted Rack of Lamb ($76). Perfectly grilled, tender, and devoid of any gaminess, it is a delightful choice for those seeking an alternative to beef.

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Grilled Whole Turbot 4.5/5

The Grilled Whole Turbot ($298) is ideal for sharing, and it impresses with its impeccable texture and flavours.

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Lemon Tart 4.2/5

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Astor Grill Tiramisu 4.5/5

To conclude the meal on a sweet note, The Astor Grill offers a selection of delectable desserts. The Lemon Tart ($22) is a perfect choice for a light and refreshing option. Those with a sweet tooth will delight in the Chocolate Mi-Cuit ($22) and Sticky Toffee Pudding ($22). However, my personal favourite is the Astor Grill Tiramisu ($22)—a deconstructed yet well-balanced rendition comprising espresso-soaked ladyfingers, coffee gelato, and crispy gold crumbs.

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Chocolate Mi-Cuit 4/5

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Sticky Toffee Pudding 4/5

The Astor Grill at St. Regis Singapore is a culinary haven that delights diners with its exquisite cuts, bespoke dining experiences, and impeccable flavours. Whether you're a steak aficionado or searching for a remarkable dining adventure, The Astor Grill will leave a lasting impression on your palate. There is even a value-for-money 3-course Set Lunch priced at $48.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Astor Grill
St. Regis Singapore
Lobby Level
29 Tanglin Road
Singapore 247911
Tel: +65 65066860
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Nearest MRT: Orchard Boulevard (TE Line), Orchard (NS, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm 1030pm
Sun: 630pm - 103pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk towards Wheelock Place via ION. Exit Wheelock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Continue onwards to Forum Shopping Mall. Walk further down to Orchard Parade Hotel. Turn left onto Tanglin Road. St Regis is just beside Tanglin Shopping Centre. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Orchard Boulevard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Turn left onto Cuscaden Road. Walk to Tomlinson Road. Turn left onto Tomlinson Road. Walk to Tanglin Road. Turn right onto Tanglin Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]