BOTANY @ Robertson Quay - Aesthetic & Pet-Friendly Botanical-themed Restaurant Featuring East-West Fusion Flavours

BOTANY, nestled in Robertson Quay, has undergone a refreshing transformation into a warm, botanical-themed space. By day, it serves as an all-day dining spot; by evening, it becomes an intimate venue for any occasion. Founder Cassandra Riene commits to providing a diverse menu that caters to various dietary preferences, including meat, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor area overlooking the scenic river, and ideal for diners with pets. Indoors, a cosy, laid-back ambience prevails, enhanced by a chill playlist.

A range of promotions adds to the experience:
● Ladies' Night: 1-for-1 Botanical Cocktails (U.P. $18 each) every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm
● Men’s Night: 1-for-1 pints on Thursdays from 6pm to 9.30pm
● Daily Free Flow: $48++ for house wine, draft beer, and Moscato with a 2-hour limit starting at 6pm

Mocktails

We kicked off our meal with refreshing albeit sweet mocktails: Dancing Petals ($12), featuring a blend of assam tea, lemon, raspberry, and honey, and Younger Days ($12), made with apple juice, cinnamon, and rosemary.

Gochujang Cauli 3.5/5

First up was the Gochujang Cauli ($15), lightly battered cauliflower coated in a sweet gochujang sauce with spring onions and sesame seeds. I personally found the sauce too sweet and a bit overpowering, and I thought a lighter touch would have enhanced the dish.

Otah Fritters 4.2/5

Next, we had the Otah Fritters ($15), which were a standout. Slightly crisp on the outside, the fritters revealed a tender otah interior with chunks of fish and prawns, perfectly spiced for a satisfying bite.

Scallop Truffle Capellini 4/5

For mains, we started with the Scallop Truffle Capellini ($29), a chilled capellini dish dressed in truffle salsa and sakura ebi, topped with torched scallops and salmon roe for delightful pops of briny savouriness.

‘Hae Mee’ Pasta 4.2/5

We then tried the 'Hae Mee' Pasta ($29), BOTANY's twist on our local prawn noodles. While I thought the spaghetti could be a touch more al dente, the pasta was bathed in an umami-rich prawn bisque and crowned with a torched tiger prawn and tobiko.

Impossible Rendang Meatball with Mash 4.2/5

A pleasant surprise was the Impossible Rendang Meatball with Mash ($22). The Impossible meatballs, simmered in an aromatic rendang sauce, paired wonderfully with the creamy, buttery mash, making it a hearty plant-based option.

Signature Basque Cheesecake 4.2/5

We couldn't resist the Signature Basque Cheesecake ($12) for dessert, and the decadent piece did not disappoint. It was super cheesy and just slightly creamy in texture.

Overall, our lunch experience at BOTANY was delightful, with friendly service. We recommend making a reservation, especially if you prefer the cosy indoor seating.

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.


BOTANY
86 Robertson Quay
#01-03
Singapore 238245
Tel: +65 6951 4861
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Nearest MRT: Havelock (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9am - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 830am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight down Havelock Road towards Four Points by Sheraton. At Four Points by Sheraton, walk to the river. Cross the river and walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記) @ Tanjong Pagar - Newly Opened 2nd Outlet at Guoco Tower Featuring Hubei Signatures

Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記) first introduced their Hubei Signatures to Jurong Point in Boon Lay but has quickly introduced their second new outlet at Guoco Tower in Tanjong Pagar. Guoco Tower is conveniently connected to Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, and you can reach its store in less than two minutes after tapping out.

Cai Lin Ji is a very no-frills type of eatery where the food is served fast and priced reasonably.

Green Brick Tea

We had Hubei's prized heritage tea to accompany our meal. The Green Brick Tea ($6.80/pot) was mellow and refreshing, helpful to cut through the heavier dishes.

Steamed Pork with Rice Flour 4.2/5

While it didn't look the most appetising, the Steamed Pork with Rice Flour ($9.90) was a pleasant surprise. This had steamed soft potatoes and tender pork belly loaded with rich and nutty spiced rice flour. We learned that this is a rare dish even in restaurants in China and is usually enjoyed at home instead for special festive occasions.

Pearl Meatballs 4.2/5

The Pearl Meatballs ($5.90/3 pcs) were reminiscent of our local Lo Mai Gai (glutinous rice chicken). The rice exterior was sticky to the teeth, but we didn't mind. You will find tender and juicy meat within.

Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser 3.5/5

For something lighter, you can consider the Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser ($5.90), which has a slightly tangy mix of glass noodles, black fungus, carrots, and more.

Shrimp HuTangFen 3.8/5

We found the Shrimp HuTangFen ($11.90) a tad underwhelming. The gravy is distinctly peppery with a slightly thicker consistency.

While I enjoyed the bits of crunchy sour vegetables and savoury hae bi, they could come in a bigger portion for better variety in flavour and texture.

Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles 4.5/5

We initially saw a couple of average reviews for the Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles ($7.90), mentioning that it was too dry, but ours was done just right!

The slightly chewy noodles are tossed in a very nutty sauce with a base of sesame, dark soya, garlic and sweet bean before being topped with minced meat, crunchy preserved vegetables, and spring onions. This was full of flavour with well-marinated meat. I recommend mixing this up and digging in right away upon serving.

Three Delicacies Dou Pi 3.8/5

A traditional Hubei snack, the Three Delicacies Dou Pi ($4.50/pc, $8.50/2 pcs), is an interesting dish made of different layers of ingredients.

The base was potato flour, egg, steamed glutinous rice, and toppings of minced meat, pork belly, and mushrooms. Overall, I just thought it was a bit too oily for my liking.

Han Kou Wanton 4.5/5

The freshly made daily Han Kou Wanton ($6.90) came in a bowl of 10 pieces and would be a good sharing option. The wanton skin was smooth, with a savoury meat centre.

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.


Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記)
Guoco Tower
#B2-26
1 Wallich Street
Singapore 078881
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Tap out from the train station and walk straight to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]

California Republic @ Amoy Street - Bold, Bright and Fresh Approach To Italian-inspired Cuisine

Taking over the space of now-defunct Carne is California Republic, the latest concept by The Dandy Collection. Stepping into the restaurant, it felt like entering a time capsule of California living in the summer of 1960, a time of woodie surf wagons and sunken living rooms.

Grilled Oysters 4/5

WWe start our meal with the Grilled Oysters ($18), grilled with chipotle chilli, bourbon and garlic compound butter. It is inspired by Micahel Goodman's (Co-founder & CVO) fond memory of his time at the Hog Island Oyster Company.

Faux Artichokes 3/5

Next, we had the Faux Artichokes ($18), which is jackfruit barigoule dressed in green herbs aioli. The flavours were beautiful, but I am not a fan of its texture. If I am not wrong, it uses the tasteless core of the jackfruit.

Meatballs al Angeleno 4.5/5

One of my favourite dishes at California Republic is the Meatballs al Angeleno ($28). The meatballs are made from pork and veal, drenched in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce. They were huge and juicy. Best to wipe up the sauce with the accompanying toasted bread. I only wish for more bread to go with the delicious tomato sauce.

Smoked Bucatini 4.8/5

What is an Italian restaurant with pasta on its menu, right? You will not be disappointed with the pasta offered at California Republic. I find them much better than their mains. One of their pasta highlights is the Smoked Bucatini ($34), made from smoked flour and tossed in pork ragu in bianco with classic soffritto. It is then finished with Parmigiano shavings and a touch of bone marrow.

Celery Root Cappelacci 4.2/5

Similar to tortellini is the Celery Root Cappellacci ($29) stuffed with celery and root puree and cooked in a roasted mushroom sauce. Due to the folded shape of the pasta, which resembles a hat, it is thicker at the edges for a more delectable bite.

Lazy Man's Cioppino 4.2/5

West Coast Garlic Mop 4.2/5

The Lazy Man's Cioppino ($48), a classic San-Francisco tomato-based seafood stew comprising roasted seabass, clams, mussels, calamari and prawns, is excellent for sharing. Best to order the West Coast Garlic Mops ($18) to mop up the tomato sauce or have it together with some Charred Broccolini ($14) if you need your greens.

Charred Broccolini 3.5/5

Espresso Budino 4/5

Wrapping up our dinner, we had the Espresso Budino ($16). A sweet and creamy dessert comprising of cream, milk, espresso and espresso cream to wake one up from the food coma. Though heavy on the cream, it is light on sugar.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


California Republic
88 Amoy Street
Singapore 069907
Tel: +65 97849487
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Wed-Sun: 12pm - 3pm, 530pm - 12 midnight

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

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

Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar @ Kinex - New Mod-Japanese Restaurant With Inventive Interpretations Of Izakaya Food

Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar is a new mod-Japanese restaurant at Kinex. Diners can look forward to inventive interpretations of izakaya food and Japanese cuisine prepared with fresh and quality ingredients.

Maguro Tataki Salad 3/5

We started with the Maguro Tataki Salad ($28), which comes with thick slices of tuna layered on a bed of mixed salad and kaiso seaweed. Pour the wasabi yuzu sauce and give everything a good toss to brighten the enjoyment.

Shironi Truffle 4/5

The Shironi Truffle ($30) consists of light and clean tasting sea bream topped with caviar and drizzled with truffle oil for an elevated finishing. It is an elegant and beautiful dish.

Tofu Nuggets 4.2/5

One of my favourite items on the menu is the Tofu Nuggets ($12). The tofu nuggets are made from pressed tofu, almond meal and potato. It is as good as McDonald's nugget and much healthier.

Uni Kura Tart 4.5/5

Making an impressive entry is the Uni Kura Tart ($22/pc). It is served in a smoked jewel box, giving it a beautiful smoky aroma, topped with salmon roe and truffle cream. It is a lavish play of umami flavours.

Charcoal Chicken 4.5/5

Using chicken thigh cut, the Charcoal Chicken ($16) is tender and juicy inside, yet crispy on the exterior. It is a delightful and addictive starter. Best to go along with a few drinks.

Tsukune 4.5/5

The Tsukune ($5.20) is another delightful bite to go with the drinks. What I enjoy about the homemade chicken meatball is its soft bone, giving it a nice textural contrast.

Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke 4.5/5

Besides the a la carte items, diners can leave the meal to the hands of the skilful chef too. From the omakase menu, we tried the Miyazaki A4 Wagyu Cha Zuke. The best way to enjoy this is to pour the kombu dashi stock into the rice for a light and flavourful enjoyment. It is a hearty and comforting rice dish with melt in the mouth wagyu.

Ume Jelly 3.5/5

Wrapping up our dinner is the Ume Jelly ($8) made with Japanese plum liquor jelly and wholesome wolfberries.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Osomatsu Japanese Kitchen & Bar
Kinex
11 Tanjong Katong Road
#02-21
Singapore 437157
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Nearest MRT: Paya Lebar (CC Line, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 11pm

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]

Kingdom of Belgians @ Rodyk Street - New French Gourmet Grocery And Daily Brunch

Kingdom of Belgians, located at the less bustling end of Robertson Quay, has been awaiting you to have a taste of their Belgium specialities since their opening in January last year. They have revamped the menu recently, serving our beloved brunch daily alongside their popular Belgium favourites. A new partnership has been formed as well, with fine food gourmet grocer LPB Market (formerly La Petite Boutique) to offer a new store showcasing premium French groceries available both on retail and dine in at the restaurant.

Egg Benedict with Salmon Gravlax with Brioche 4.8/5

Knowing KOB is a casual set-up by Chef-Owner Emmanuel Stroobant, there were certain expectations of the food here, and I wasn't disappointed at all. A common brunch dish such as Egg Benedict ($16) was elevated with a level of sophistication with their housemade Salmon Gravlax. Its deep orangey colour was alluring, to begin with, and its luscious texture, which was further boosted by tangy hollandaise and rich oozy egg yolk, was simply divine. Savoury and herbaceous with dill, it was perfect with the buttery and sweet brioche as the base.

Plat du Jour 4/5

A heartier brunch dish like Plat du Jour ($18) would probably have you returning to KOB. The half of a roasted spring chicken itself was pleasingly tender. I love the creamy bacon and mushroom sauce made using the juice from roasting the chicken, imbuing layers of flavour into a simple dish like this.

Blue Cheese Moules 4.2/5

Be sure to try one of their Moules ($24 for starters/$38 for main). We had the Blue Cheese Moules that came extremely pungent (in a good way!). Creamy and rich with blue cheese, there is no other way to savour the broth than sopping it with the accompanying sweet and buttery brioche.

Braised Pork-Beef Meatballs 4.8/5

And I'm so in love with their Boulet Liegeois ($24)! A Belgian classic, their Braised Pork-Beef Meatballs are served with caramelised shallot, raisins in beef jus. Like a well-made burger patty, the meatballs were very well seasoned, incredibly juicy, and its texture maintained a balance between loose and compact with the right amount of lean meat and fats. The jus was superb with flavours lent from infusing cloves and juniper berries. The addition of the shallot and raisins lent a pop of tart sweetness that cut the dish's richness.

Spiced Apple Tart 4.5

For dessert, the Spiced Apple Tart ($14.00) will make your day. The spiced caramelised apple encased within the thin, flaky shortcrust pastry was deeply infused with spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, star anise, a lot more so than many which I ever had, which to me was even tastier.

Before heading out, perhaps you might want to grab a few gourmet items from the LPB Market. They house a rotating selection of more than 50 different types of artisanal cheeses along with other quality products, including charcuterie, fresh dairy and meat, and award-winning wines. Famed signatures include the highly popular Truffle Brie, Saucisson, Country Paté, and Salmon Rillette. Else, online shopping is also available on https://petiteboutique-sg.com/.

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.


Kingdom of Belgians
8 Rodyk Street
#01-05/06
Singapore 238216
Tel: +65 66340500
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Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Tiong Bahru (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 10am - 1030pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to bus stop along Upper Cross Road, Opposite Subordinate Court (Stop ID 06171). Take bus number 51 or 186. Alight 2 stops later. Cross the road. Walk towards the river. Cross the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tiong Bahru MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Tiong Bahru MRT station (Stop ID 10169). Take bus 123. Alight 4 stops later. Walk towards the river. Cross the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 14 minutes. [Map]