Club Meatballs @ Cross Street - Thrilled By Meatballs In All Possible Forms That You Could Ever Imagine

When Club Meatballs opened their doors at Cross Street 3 years ago, they didn't quite change the scene like what a burger would at times. But now with a new chef on board, along with a revamped menu, this humble meatball may be on a roll this time round. Crafted by millennial chef La Mei Mei from New York, be thrilled by meatballs in all possible forms that you could ever imagine. “Food that makes people happy” quoting Chef Mei.

Ginger Pork Ball 3.5/5

Bar Bites menu here is a wardrobe of meatballs dishes that replace the usual boring caloried-pack finger food. Paying homage to her Vietnamese and Malaysian descent, Ginger Pork Ball Lettuce Cups ($14) exudes flavours of a Vietnamese dish. The piquant dressing may remind you of a fish sauce dip but better with a touch of acidity from lime juice, which makes it suitable as an appetizer too.

Cup of Chilli 3.8/5

The extended bar bites menu also feature comfort food such as Cup of Chili ($10). Thick and robust with minced beef and spices, it reminds me of a really good beef goulash I had in Eastern Europe. A small cup, yet so intense, goes a long way in satisfying one's appetite.

Mac & Cheese balls 3/5

The crust of the Mac and Cheese Balls ($12) was well done and remained crusty even after a while but what's lacking I feel is that highly anticipated ooze that is very much associated with Mac and Cheese, that usually drives the craving. Perhaps, a cheese dip at the side or simply a pour over onto the crusty balls may help to elevate the experience.

Club Meatball Pizza 3.5/5

Never thought of using meatball as pizza toppings but Club Meatball Pizza ($22) did it seamlessly. I love the charred bacon atop, not just because of its smokey flavour but the pizza just smelled so good when I brought a slice into my mouth. Visually, it would be more enticing if the meatballs are kept whole, as if meatballs have fallen onto our pizza!

Baller Platter 4.2/5

Time to really feast on meatballs! The Baller Platter ($25-$35) comes in a choice of signature balls - classic beef, ginger pork, garlic thyme chicken, cumin spiced lamb, panko crusted fish, tofu and mushroom; served on a bed of mashed potatoes and topped with a selection of sauces of your choice - tomato, garlic aioli, mushroom, red wine onion gravy or pesto. We had garlic thyme chicken balls, each dressed neatly with mushroom sauce. Surprisingly, I like it a lot more than I thought I would. These chicken balls are compact but enough room for the minced meat to release its juice within and react with the garlic and thyme. The spices cuts the meatiness which ensures you and your friends can work through the entire plate. The mash potatoes itself shines on its own - smooth and creamy, it completes a classic meatball dish, along with the rich shroomy sauce.

Shepherd's Pie 2.8/5

Shepherd’s Pie ($18) here is made with lamb and what's interesting is that the mini lamb balls gives an extra bite to it. Its taste did not sit quite well with me though. I would prefer a tomato based sauce to work with the gamey flavour of the lamb and the mash potatoes atop was too runny.

Beer Braised Short Ribs 3.8/5

Whole meats plates are available too and I would recommend this Beer Braised Short Ribs ($28), slow-cooked not sous vide, in San Miguel dark lager. Just look at how cushy the mashed potatoes is! The meat was fork-tender and the sauce complements not just the meat but the fluffy mashed potatoes underneath.

I hardly take notice of meatballs, other than the IKEA meatballs that we grow up with. Club Meatballs changes that. There are great drinks promotion going on, though we ladies benefit more - On Wednesday ladies night, 1 for 1 Aperol Spritz is at $15 and groups of 4 ladies enjoy a complimentary bottle of champagne!

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.


Club MeatBalls
China Court
20 Cross Street
#01-05/06
Singapore 048422
Tel: +65 62228660
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)

Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am- 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 10am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to South Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Ninja Bowl @ Duxton Road - Turns Two With A Whole New Slew Of Hearty Dishes

Ninja Bowl at Duxton Road celebrates its 2nd anniversary with a refreshed menu. In addition to the whole new slew of hearty dishes, it has for the first time introduce a range of pasta dishes too.

Tamago Sandwich 4.2/5

For our lunch, we started with the Tamago Sandwich ($16). The soft and fluffy tamogo is coated with a layer of melted gouda cheese for that extra oomph and sandwiched in between a croissant. Besides that, it is further accompanied with a side of Japanese curry minced beef and an onsen egg. You can even use the croissant to wipe the plate clean.

Hokkaido 4/5

For the seafood lover, there is Hokkaido ($16) which comes with tempura-battered fish fillet and soft shell crab. The tendon rice bowl is pretty substantial. Instead of the usual tendon sauce, homemade chilli crab sauce is used for a local twist.

Harajuku 4.5/5

It is probably hard to tell from the picture but on the plate is a whole roasted cauliflower. The Harajuku ($18) is a roasted cauliflower steak topped with tempura bits and pine nuts. Accompanying the dish is yaki unagi that has been glazed with kebayaki sauce and creamy mac & cheese. The combination may sounds a weird but surprisingly it works.

Ohayo 4/5

Last but not least we had the Ohayo ($20). The savoury-sweet combination can either be a brunch item or dessert. Two fluffy French toast is paired with maple-glazed pork belly, pomegranate. rocket, momo tomatoes and burrata. I feel the milky and buttery burrata cheese plays an important role in harmonizing the whole dish.

The new menu at Ninja Bowl has definitely delivered new excitement to the table, giving more reasons for guest to return. It once again has impressed me with their new creations.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Ninja Bowl
15 Duxton Road
Singapore 089481
Tel: +65 62228055
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 930am - 930pm
Sat-Sun: 9am - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Orchid Hotel. At Orchid Hotel turn right onto Tanjong Pagar Road. Cross the road to the opposite side of Tanjong Pagar Road. Walk along Tanjong Pagar Road to Duxton Hill. Turn left onto Duxton Hill and then turn right on Duxton Road. Journey time about 15 mins. [Map]

SKIRT @ W Singapore - More Than Just A Steakhouse Here

SKIRT at W Singapore is not known only as a steakhouse for its prime cuts of meat but it now offers an expanded menu that includes European dishes with a touch of Asian influences, under the new leadership of Head Chef, Justin Dingle Garciyya. It is moving away from its steakhouse label, with more variety on the menu.

Focaccia 4.5/5

Our dinner started with some warm house-baked Focaccia that is served with duck fat butter and smoked salt. I would have stuffed myself with the fluffy bread if not for the reason that I am saving my stomach for the rest of the new menu.

Sir Lankan Crab & Caviar 4/5

The Sri Lankan Crab & Caviar ($32) comes with luxe shreds of crab meat crowned with caviar. This is served in a creamy shellfish bisque. The bisque has that familiar curry flavour probably from the addition of lemongrass in it.

Truffled Beef Tartare 4.2/5

Having the beef tartare alone can be a bit surfeit for some. Hence I like the idea of the rice crispies that is paired with the Truffled Beef Tartare ($28). It gives the dish an enjoyable texture, so that one will not feel heavy eating it.

Veal Sweetbread & Foie Gras 4.2/5

I didn't thought I would enjoy the Veal Sweetbread & Foie Gras ($38) with mushroom which has been cooked in a red wine jus but I just could not help going back for more. Besides the fatty foie gras, the red wine jus definitely plays a part in elevating the taste of the the veal sweetbread and mushroom.

Bone Marrow 4.5/5

These Bone Marrow ($45) is a two-in-one dish with plump escargot inside the bone marrow, oven roasted with cafe de skirt butter.

Cape Grim Sirloin 4.5/5

A visit to Skirt is not complete without trying the steak. We had the Cape Grim Sirloin that is grilled to medium rare and dressed in sun choke foam. The beautiful pink piece of meat is tender and juicy, while the sauce did not steal the limelight from the beef, instead complementing it.

Brocollini 4/5

Beets & Blunts 4.2/5

You can also order a number of sides such as the Brocollini, Beets & Blunts, Lobster Mac & Cheese and Pommes Anna to go with the steak. I like the pickled roots from the beets & blunts which helps to cut the richness.

Lobster Mac & Cheese 4.2/5

Pommes Anna 4.5/5

I would recommend going for the Lobster Mac & Cheese which is a luxurious upgrade from the classic with pieces of lobster meat. The Pommes Anna with thin layers of potato slices in melted butter, will get you savouring for more.

Banana Pizza 4.2/5

I would strongly recommend you to save a space for the Banana Pizza ($18). The combination of the sweetness of the banana and nutty caramelized pistachios, topped with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream gives an enjoyable contrast that will delight the sweet tooth.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


SKIRT
W Singapore
21 Ocean Way
Singapore 098374
Tel: +65 68087278
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Nearest MRT: Harbourfront (CC Line, NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 6pm - 1130pm
Fri-Sat, Eve of PH  and PH: 6pm - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Harbour Front MRT station. Exit station to Vivocity Shopping Mall. Go to Sentosa Express Station at Level 3 of Vivocity. Take Sentosa Express Train to Beach station. Alight at Beach station and transfer to Sentosa Bus B. [Map]

The Square Restaruant @ Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay - Launches First Ever Salted Egg Buffet Perfect For Salted Egg Lovers

Located on the 7th level of Novotel Singapore Clarke Quay, The Square Restaurant presents its first ever Salted Egg "Go For Gold" Buffet available from 1st July to 30th August 2018. Relish in exciting salted egg items from mains, seafood to desserts where you can find a piece of gold heaven in every corner.

The star of the show would be the golden velvety salted egg fountain positioned prominently as the centerpiece of the buffet.

There are also a large variety of condiments on sticks to dip into the salted egg fountain such as the Crispy Chicken Wings, Chicken Yakitori, Sausages, Fried Tofu, Assorted vegetables and more.

Other than the salted egg fountain, there are also a number of scrumptious salted egg offerings to feast into, such as their signature Salted Egg Crayfish, as well as the Salted Egg Mac and Cheese.

While the Salted Egg Mac and Cheese is enjoyable, the salted egg flavour incorporated within the dish could be stronger.

The desserts section features a variety of dessert options such as the fluffy Japanese cheese cake, lemon Swiss Roll and more. It showcases 2 salted egg highlights: the Salted Egg Cheesecake and Salted Egg Chilli Chocolate Mousse.

While the Salted Egg sauce drizzled on the Salted Egg Cheesecake might be a little too subtle, I still enjoyed the creamy cheesecake base. The Salted Egg Chilli Chocolate Mousse has a rather subtle salted egg flavour with a stronger chocolate base. Each bite emits a sharp spicy note from the chilli within the mousse cake.

There are also a pancake making machine and an ice cream counter in a corner of the restaurant, which might be easily missed if you were not informed. Press the start button on the pancake machine and watch the machine whirring away as it churns out 2 small odd-shaped pancakes each time. The warm Pancakes boast a soft and fluffy texture, which was rather decent considering they were machine-made, and also complimented well with the ice cream.

Apart from the salted egg highlights at the buffet, there are also a variety of other non-salted options as well, where diners can continue to indulge in if they get an overdose of salted egg. There are the Thai Style Chicken Fried Rice, Pork Ribs with Honey Sauce, Tofu with Prawns, Swedish Style Meatballs and more.

For the seafood lovers, leave some space for the Seafood on Ice inclusive of Fresh Oyster, Live paoched Tiger Prawns, Scallops, Black Mussel and Sashimi.

The inagural Go For Gold Salted Egg buffet is only available for dinner in the month of July and August. Menus are on rotation and buffet items may be subject to change.

Go For Gold Salted Egg Buffet
Sun-Thu: 6pm - 10pm
Price: $58 Adult, $40 Senior Citizen (above 55 years old), $29 Child (5-12 years old)

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Square Restaurant
Novotel Singapore Clark Quay
177A River Valley Road
Singapore 179031
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sun: 6am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Liang Court. Walk to Tan Tye Place road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Two Hana @ Century Square - Bringing Two Cultures, Korean And Western Together

There are quite a number of restaurants and eateries to check out at the newly re-opened Century Square mall. One of these restaurants and eateries is Two Hana which is located near the mall's taxi stand. It is a Korea meets West cafe concept offering a eclectic menu featuring all-day dining, light bites, hearty mains, alluring dessert, refreshing drinks and specialty coffee from All Press.

Two Hana Drumlets 3.5/5

Since it is a Korean inspired cafe, then we can do without the Korean fried chicken. The Two Hana Drumlets ($9) comes in 2 flavours - Honey Butter and Spicy Yangnyeom. It is a sweet and spicy combination with deep fried crispy skin. The honey butter sauce drumlets are topped with popcorn and almond while the spicy yangnyeom comes with sesame seeds.

Korean Cauliflower Fritters 4/5

Kimchi Mac & Cheese Bites 3.5/5

For some light bites on the menu, there are the Korean Cauliflower Fritters ($8) and Kimchi Mac & Cheese Bites ($9). The cauliflower is coated in a light crispy tempura batter and glazed in a sweet and spicy sauce. Up a notch with the kimchi mac & cheese whereby the cheesy filling is spiced up with kimchi chucks enveloped by crispy breadcrumbs.

Bulgogi Sidewinders 3.5/5

If you find having fries alone is rather boring, then the Bulgogi Sidewinders ($9) will be a nice change with its abundance of toppings such as beef bulgogi, creamy bulgogi sauce, kimchi bits, onions and parmeson cheese. It may sounds and looks messy but the combination actually comes together quite well.

Korean Slaw & Rocket Salad 3/5

If you want something light and healthy, there is the Korean Slaw & Rocket Salad ($9). The green consists of an assortment of rockets, cabbage and red cabbage. It is topped with pear, parmesan, mandarin orange, citron jam, yogurt and raisins. I enjoyed how the fruits and jam lend a citrus touch to the earthy greens.

Kimchi Bibimwrap 3/5

A staple Korean dish is the bibimap which is usually served in a bowl. How about the Kimchi Bibimwarp ($12), bibimap in a wrap? The wrap is stuffed with kimgaru rice, spinach, namul, shiitake mushrooms, fried garlic, egg, lettuce, cabbage, toasted sesame dressing and fried garlic. This is a meal on its own. You can also opt not to have rice in the wrap.

Striploin Bap 4/5

Rice bowl has been one the latest food trends in Singapore. Jumping on the bandwagon is the Striploin Bap ($13), its Korean interpretation of the rice bowl. Beautifully seared striploin slices, together with servings of kimchi, spinach, beansprout namul, caramelised onions and poached egg rest on top of the kimgarou rice. In fact, I find the bowl a bit small for the generous servings.

Crisp-Battered Pacific Cod 3/5

The Crisp-Battered Pacific Cod ($14) is served on a bed of doenjang mashed potatoes and comes with a choice of kimchi veloute or honey soy mayonnaise sauce. Unfortunately the highlight of the dish is the doenjang mashed potatoes, made from 60% potatoes, 40% butter and doenjang sauce. The bland tasting pacific cod is overshadowed by the creamy mashed potatoes with chunky bites.

Korean Seafood Cioppino 4.5/5

The dining group's favourite has to be the Korean Seafood Cioppino ($12), brimming with a medley of mussels, clams, prawns, mushroom and carrots stewed in tomatoes cream base. Diners can have a choice of tofu or soft rolls to go with the rich and creamy soup. It's like have a bowl of lobster bisque.

Gochujang Braised Lamb Shank 3.8/5

I thought the Gochujang Braised Lamb Shank ($24) is rather special. Unlike the usual, it is braised in a gochujang tomato sauce. While the braised sauce was delish, I was lacked down by the texture of the lamb shank. I was expecting it to be more tender. It seems that the lamb shank needs more hours in the pot.

Apple Caramel Waffles with Doenjang Caramel Ice Cream 3.5/5

As for dessert, I tried both the Apple Caramel Waffles with Doenjang Caramel Ice Cream ($9) and Strawberry Waffles with Honey Citron Ice Cream ($9). The waffles are crispy and dense. The addition of fruits help to cut those density with the yummy ice cream providing the home run.

Strawberry Waffles with Honey Citron Ice Cream 3.5/5

Overall, I feel that Two Hana serves some interesting Korean meets Western dishes but some are not at that level yet. There is potential in the dishes but probably needed more refinement to reach to excellent. Putting the food aside, the cafe serves great coffee using beans from All Press. So don't forget to get your caffeine fix whenever you drop by the cafe.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Two Hana
Century Square
2 Tampines Central 5
#01-21
Singapore 529509
Tel: +65 62604339
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Tampines (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tampines MRT station. Take Exit C. Turn left and walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and walk down Tampines Central 5. Walk to Century Square. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]