Ah Hua Teochew Fishball Noodle @ Pandan Gardens - Best Fishball Noodle In The West

I have known about Ah Hua Teochew Fishball Noodle at Pandan Gardens for a while, but I simply can't find the time to visit it even though it is quite near my home. Excuses aside I finally made my way to the quiet neighbourhood to check out the hidden gem that has received raving reviews even from fellow hawkers, chefs and influencers. The more reason I have to check it out myself.

Mee Pok Dry 4.2/5

I have the Fishball Mee Pok Dry ($3). The noodle was cooked to a delightful al dente bite complemented by the excellent chilli sauce which has been made in-house. I had the small bowl, which also comes with three fishballs and some slices of fish cakes.

Mixed Soup 4.5/5

Meatball 4.5/5, Fish Dumpling 4.8/5

Knowing that the stall handmade most of the ingredients, I could not resist ordering a bowl of Mixed Soup ($5/$6) that comes with all these handmade goodness. Besides the bouncy handmade fishballs, the highlight has to be their Fish Dumpling. Unlike those doughy, factory-made type, the fish dumpling here has a silky texture with a crunchy bite. It is like wrapping it with real fish skin. The handmade meatball here is as good too. I was surprised by its soft texture with the aroma of dried sole fish.

Yong Tau Foo 4.2/5

If you don't feel like have fishball noodle, you can also go for the Yong Tau Foo ($4). For the price, the portion is really decent with stuffed beancurd, beancurd skin, fish cake, fish dumpling and meatball. You can choose to have it together with noodle or rice.

I am really great that I have finally tried Ah Hua Teochew Fishball Noodle and now I understand why it has been getting good reviews from fellow foodies. The best part it is near my home. In fact, I have already gone back a couple of times already.


Ah Hua Teochew Fishball Noodle
Blk 415 Pandan Gardens
#01-117
Singapore 600415
Tel: 65 90027330
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Jurong East (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 7am - 3pm
Sun: 7am - 2pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Jurong East MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Jurong East Bus Interchange (Stop ID 28009). Take bus number 51. Alight 7 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 25 minutes. [Map]

Baan Ying @ Royal Square - The Great Baan Ying Brunch

Established since 1999 in Bangkok, Baan Ying has been known for its home-style Thai cuisine created by founder Aunty Ying. From a small humble eatery to a restaurant group in Bangkok, its first Singapore outpost in Royal Square set up last year made quite an impression with its bright and airy space. Other than bringing home-style dishes from Aunty Ying's hometown, Baan Ying shall bring to you another type of experience - The Great Baan Ying Brunch.

Salmon Steak 3.5/5

Drop by on Saturday or Sunday from 11am to 3pm, you can indulge in popular Thai favourites that include a choice of one main course along with a buffet spread of 12 to 15 delectable appetisers, sides and desserts on rotation every week. Priced at $38.80++ per adult and $19.40++ per child (four to ten years old; kids under three dine free; child price includes a complimentary fruit juice). Top up $29.80 for a free-flow of beer and wine. Out of the four mains that I get to choose from - Angus Beef Steak, Bone-in Iberico Pork Chop (approx. 250g, additional $9.80++), Pan-fried Salmon Steak and Grilled Large River Prawns, we had the Salmon Steak and Pork Chop.

Pork Rib 3.8/5

Iberico Pork Chop, that has been marinated with Aunty Ying's secret blend of Thai spices. My favourite part is definitely the portion near the rib, as I really love the luscious and flavourful fats. The lime wedges served together with the main dishes is a nice touch to cut the richness of the meats.

Thai Salad 4/5

That said, coming to a Thai restaurant, the main drawn is still the spread of the traditional Thai dishes such as salads, soups, the curries etc. One of the highlights for me is definitely the DIY Thai Salad station where I get to mix and match own ingredients such as peanuts, dried shrimp, cherry tomatoes, long beans and either, tangy green papaya (Som Tum) or green mango (Yum Mamuang) and toss them in Aunty Ying’s secret salad dressing. We were fortunate to have a staff to demonstrate for us the techniques and skills that go into making a good Som Tum. Seems tedious but with a dressing that good, I am quite sure yours will turn out just as great too!

Yum Woon Sen 3.8/5

Out of the entire spread, my favourite would be the Yum Woon Sen (Glass Noodle Salad) which was loaded with seafood. The ingredients were really fresh, especially the thick cut of fish slices.

Larb Moo Tod 3/5

Mu Tod Nga 3/5

A few bite size items that is good to accompany your beer is the mini Larb Moo Tod, deep fried spicy meat balls mixed with toasted ground rice, mixed herbs and lime. The other delectable bite is the Mu Tod Nga which is Baan Ying's very own white sesame pork, and you may find it as moreish as any fried chicken wing. It would be much better of course, if you are able to consume them while still hot as they tend to get a bit dry and tough when out for too long.

Green Curry with Chicken 3/5, Salted Egg Fried Rice 3.5/5

A few quintessential Thai dishes such as Green Curry and Tom Yum Soup are also available. There was no pineapple fried rice, but we had an equally sumptuous Salted Egg Fried Rice.

Rainbow Ruby 3/5

Yam Soup 3/5

Desserts are of comforting taste, such as Rainbow Ruby, that has colours obtained from natural ingredients such as sweet potatoes, Lord Chong (green tapioca noodles in sweet coconut milk) and Yam Soup.

Overall, although there are a few interesting Thai dishes among the buffet spread, I might have a more satisfying experience if I were to go for ala carte option. The main dishes were all right but the key to satisfy my Thai food craving would still be that few Thai style dishes that I have grown accustomed to.

Words and photos 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.


Baan Ying
Royal Square @ Novena
103 Irrawaddy Road
#02-07
Singapore 329566
Tel: +65 91117852
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 11am to 3 pm, 530pm to 10pm
Sat-Sun: 11am to 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take Exit A or B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 mins. [Map]

Empress Porridge @ Fusionpolis Galaxis - 无米粥 (no rice grain) Porridge Steamboat

Empress Porridge was first established in NUH Medical Centre and has since become known for their home cooked flavours with a rotating menu of wholesome dishes. Now setting foot in Fusionpolis Place, Empress Porridge continues to warm your bellies with an expanded menu with two new additions - Porridge Steamboat and Take Home Dinner.

Porridge Steamboat 3.5/5

The Porridge Steamboat ($15) comes with a finely milled porridge base, along with an assortment of protein and vegetables. To achieve the desired grainless texture, the Empress Porridge’s 无米粥 is slow cooked for hours which at the same time draw out the sweetness of the rice.

Portion for two

Minimum 2 pax is required. Each set comes with fresh prawns, sliced fish, white and brown mushrooms, seasonal vegetables, ring ring beancurd roll including your choice of beef/chick/pork meatballs. Additional charges apply to add-on meat and vegetables. The fish slices were quite good, I like the hint of rice wine that came along with it. I do not recommend choosing beef out of the 3 meat options. I had that but I do not like the taste of it at all. Hence, best to go for either the chicken or the meatballs. The meatballs were sweet and juicy, couldn't be any better to go with the velvety porridge.

Mustard Leaves Fried Rice

A thoughtful touch added to this set is the mini bowl of Mustard Leaves Fried Rice that will be served to you to wrap up your meal. This is to make sure that you are really full at the end of this humble feast!

Empress Porridge 3/5

Solo diners can simply go for the Signature Empress Porridge ($4.80) for similar comfort. Signature Empress Porridge is cooked with a mixture of brown and white rice, simmered with dried scallops, cuttlefish, dried shrimp, tender pork collar and braised peanut. Brown rice gave it more bite which I find a lot more satisfying than just using plain white rice. The savoury taste come mainly from the dried scallops and shrimps which elevates the enjoyment of the porridge. However, there might be a need to cut back on the dried shrimps as they can get rather overwhelming after a few bites.

Carrot Cake 3/5

Prawn Paste Chicken 3/5

Other familiar delights includes Carrot Cake ($2.50) and Prawn Paste Chicken ($2.50). Pricing is economical, considering that these are not from your neighbourhood hawker centre or coffeeshop. The radish on the carrot cake is done in-house which flavoured the fluffy egg nicely, just like Cai Pok egg! The 'cake' itself is mediocre but it will satiate your craving nonetheless. The prawn paste chicken was a bit oily but if you like chicken kaarage, this is not too far off.

A quick solution to having homecooked food is their Empress' Take Home Dinner. From $9 onwards, each set comes with 1 bowl of heartwarming soup, slow-cooked daily for up to eight hours, 3 hearty dishes and 1 variation of rice dish. Check out their website for more information on pricing and dishes available.

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.


Empress Porridge
Fusionpolis Galaxis
1 Fusionopolis Place
#01-15
Singapore 138522
Tel: +65 93836788/ 69095228
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: One-North (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 730am - 730pm
Sat: 8am - 1pm
(Closed on Sun & PH)

Direction: 
1) Alight at One-North MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

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
Facebook
Website
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]

Tinoq Private Dining @ Tiong Bahru - Our Best Private Dining Experience So Far

Having checked out several private dining venues, our latest food hunt brought us to Tinoq Private Dining at the old Tiong Bahru HDB estate. The private dining is hosted by Tinoq Russell Goh. Many would have known him as a celebrity make-up artist. His recent work includes dressing up Constance Lau for the movie premiere, Crazy Rich Asians both in Hollywood and Singapore. In fact, during our dinner he was sharing with us that he was busy running around in the day getting her stuffs for the movie premiere next day.

Bakwang Kepiting 4.8/5

We started with the Bakwang Kepiting, warming up the stomach for the feast. The meatballs are big and juicy. These lovely meatballs are complemented by the robust and flavourful soup made from flower crabs, pork bones and dried flat fish. This is damn shiok that we asked for second serving.

Turmeric Rice 4.5/5

Before we arrive for our dinner, Tinoq did check with us whether we want Blue Pea Rice or Turmeric Rice for dinner. We decided to got for the latter and the turmeric was freshly plucked from Tinoq's garden for the rice.

Sotong Hitam 3.8/5

A dish I like since young is Sotong Hitam, I still remember how I like to drench my white rice with the squid ink gravy, covering the rice in a pool of black sauce. The version at Tinoq was good but I thought the gravy was slightly on the watery side. A little heat can also help to perk up the dish.

Rendang Minang Kerbau 3.5/5

Unfortunately I didn't quite enjoy the Rendang Minang Kerbau. I am not saying it is not a delicious dish but I prefer my chunky, melted in the mouth rendang. The version at Tinoq is more of pulled pork texture, with the aromatic rempah intensifying the flavour.

Chap Chye 4.2/5

The Chap Chye was cooked to a nice crunch and not too soft, absorbing the essence of the fermented bean paste. Noteworthy is the effort to tie the dried lily bubs into a knot. Traditionally that is what my grandma will do.

Sambal Telur 3/5

Probably my least favourite dish is the Sambal Telur. Lightly brown on the exterior, the eggs are sliced into half and top with homemade sambal, served together with some cucumbers.

Sweet Potato Leaves with Hai Bee Hiam 4.2/5

More commonly we like to cook our greens with sambal belachan but at Tinoq, the Sweet Potato Leaves is paired with Hai Bee Hiam. The combination is quite new to me but it works wonderfully. Totalyl enjoyed it.

Ayam Limau Perut 4.5/5

One of the crowd favourite goes to the Ayam Limau Perut. The chunky pieces of chicken are cooked to tender, immersed in a creamy piquancy gravy of tamarind, kaffir leaves and lime, flavouring the protein. How I wish there are some toasted bread for me to mop up the delicious gravy.

Char Siew 3.8/5

The Char Siew was sweet and tender but I would prefer more of the caramelized char on the exterior.

Ikan Assam Pedas 4.2/5

Steamed Thai Seabass 4.5/5

For fish lover, you will enjoy both the Ikan Assam Pedas and Steamed Thai Seabass. The Ikan Assam Pedas is very appetising with its sour spicy gravy. I even drenched my rice with the gravy. For the Steamed Thai Seabass, the cooking timing was so spot on. The fish was moist and paired so well with the sour and spicy gravy.

Ngoh Hiang 4.5/5

Another highlight at Tinoq is the homemade Ngoh Hiang. Deep fried to a delectable crispy exterior, the ngoh hiang is stuffed with minced pork, prawn chestnut and even sweet melon. This is one of the better ngoh hiang I have eaten for a long time.

Overall we feel think Tinoq has been our best private dinner experience so far. In my own term, Tinoq has the overall package. The food is homely and delicious, in addition Tinoq and his partner Dylan are excellent hosts. The private dining is priced at $100 for 7-8 courses. For our session, we had extra dishes.


Tinoq Private Dining
Blk 30 Jalan Klink
Singapore 160030
Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru (EW Line)
For reservations, e-mail pasirpanjangboy@gmail.com or SMS 9338-6439

Morganfield's @ Orchard Central - Launches Limited Time Ribs Specials to Celebrate Mother's and Father's Day

Known for its signature sticky bones - authentic, good ol’ fashioned, prime pork ribs slow-cooked and smoked to tender perfection, Morganfield’s is claimed to be the home of the best ribs in town. This time back with a new promotion, Morganfield's presents two new mouth-watering Sticky Bones sauces for a limited time only in May and June, namely the Candied Peach BBQ and Smokey Bacon Bourbon in conjunction with Mother's Day and Father's Day. Mark your calendar for you might take your parents out to Morganfield’s for a well-deserved treat.

Bacon Wrapped Meatballs 4/5

With a variety of appetizer to choose from, we started off with the Bacon Wrapped Meatballs ($11.90) which comes in deep fried pork meatballs wrapped with crispy bacon. The side of Garlic Aioli sauce dip is a great complement to the savoury pork and bacon.

Pop Corn Pork 3.8/5

The Pop Corn Pork ($9.90) features a basket full of pork cubes marinated with Morganfield's secret spice mix & deep fried till crisp. Dipping it into their homemade Garlic Aioli & BBQ Ranch Sauce adds a sweet tangy and smoky flavour to the savouriness of the meat.

Golden Fried Wings 4/5

We had the Golden Fried Wings ($12.90) as the third appetizer. Marinated with a secret recipe, its outer skin is fried till a golden brown crispiness, while its meat is tender and juicy. The appetizers are best paired with a glass of beer in hand.

Summer Peach Cooler 4/5 and SweetWater Blue 4/5

For drinks, we had the Summer Peach Cooler ($6.90) and SweetWater Blue ($10). The former is a refreshing blend of sweet peach & orange flavour with a splash of fizzy soda, while the latter is a fruit beer which has a refreshing and fruity taste, light with a hint of fresh blueberries. With an ABV of 4.8%, the craft beer is easy to drink and finishes extra clean.

Candied Peach BBQ Sticky Bones 4.2/5

The highlight of the meal is the limited-time Candied Peach BBQ Sticky Bones (Half Slab $29.90, Full Slab $46.90). Created specially for the ladies, it is made with slices of juicy peaches and rich honey, which constitutes the perfect blend of sweet and tangy over the generously-portioned and well-executed ribs.

Smokey Bacon Bourbon Sticky Bones 4.5/5

Another one of their highlights - The Smokey Bacon Bourbon Sticky Bones (Half Slab $29.90, Full Slab $46.90) features a slab of tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, topped with a hearty, rich and smoky sauce infused with bourbon, hand-chopped bacon bits and strips of candied bacon. With a flavourous luscious coating atop the savoury meat, the dish displays the perfect balance of sweet and savoury.

Bread Pudding 4/5

End your meal on a sweet note with the Bread Pudding ($11.90). This comforting homemade bread pudding comes served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream & whiskey sauce. A recommended dessert option for the alcoholics, as the whiskey sauce is very thick and rich in taste, that I feel might be a tad too overpowering for the dish.

Chocolate Brownie 4.2/5

For chocolate lovers, try the Chocolate Brownie ($13.90) which comes in a fudgey chocolate and walnut brownie, and served warm with vanilla ice cream & chocolate sauce.

These limited time offers are available all day, every day from 30th April to 24th June. Make a date with your Mum and Dad to enjoy this special treat at Morganfield’s.

Note: The Candied Peach BBQ and Smoky Bacon Bourbon Sticky Bones are also available as part of the weekday Top Value Set Lunch promotion ($29.90), that comes with a free soup and drink.

Words and photos 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.


Morganfield’s
Orchard Central
181 Orchard Road
#11-03/04
Singapore 238896
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Thu: 11am – 11pm
Fri-Sat: 11am – 12midnight

Direction: 
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]