Showing posts with label Meatball. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Meatball. Show all posts

Sunday, March 1, 2020

GO Noodle House @ 313 Somerset - Brings Famous Family Recipe Across The Causeway

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With over 37 outlets in Malaysia and Australia, GO Noodle House has finally opened in Singapore. Their first outlet is located at the basement of 313@Somerset, bringing their proven family fish bone broth recipe to our shore, which pairs excellently with their noodles and varies fishballs and meatballs. They even keep their master stock in a secret location behind fireproof wall, transporting them in -20 degree celsius blocks across the border.

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Hakka Sauce Handmade Noodles with Century Egg 4.5/5

I didn't go for the noodle soup during my visit as I have heard so much about their delicious Hakka Sauce Handmade Noodles with Century Egg ($9.90). What stand out is the thin and thick noodle coated with pork lard. Every strand is slurping goodness packed with aroma. Other components on the plate include black fungus, fried shallots, fried anchovies, minced pork, century egg and chilli oil giving them the extra textural enjoyment.

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Signature Bursting Meatball 4.2/5

I didn't order the noodle soup because I had the Signature Bursting Meatball ($10.90) which also comes with the delicious fine bone broth. A shot of Shao Xing Hua Diao Jiu which has been aged for three years is served separately for diners to pour into the soup. I would recommend pouring it into the soup, which elevates the soup with a distinctive aroma.

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The bursting meatball does not exactly has an oozing interior when one bites into it. It is juicy with marinated minced pork inside, somewhat like a cross between Fuzhou fishball and xiao long bao. Diners can also choose to add on other items to the bowl of soup. We chose to add on Squid Ball ($2.50) and Handmade West Saury Fishball ($2.50).

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Trio Platter 3/5

To complement the meal, there are other side dishes on the menu. I decided to have the Trio Platter ($21.90) which consists of Five Spice Meat Roll, Crispy Fuchuk and Gold Coin Bak Kwa. It is enjoyable but not the best I have eaten.

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At Go Noodle House Singapore outlet, there are exclusive specials such as fresh fish slice, premium beef slice cut from Australian ribeye and even the exotic frog meat.


GO Noodle House
313@Somerset
313 Orchard Road
#B3-37/38
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 63635323
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm

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

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

Fat Prince @ Tanjong Pagar - Turns Up The Vibe With Its New Brunch Menu

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The notion of fun dining is central to the recent revamp of Fat Prince at Peck Seah Street. Known for its modern middle eastern cuisine and unconventional 'kotails', a new head chef is on board to drive the refreshed menu. If you are looking for more ideas for brunches, Fat Prince might just be the answer.

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Morning Star Kotail

Fat Prince’s brunch menu is available every Saturday from 1130am to 3pm. And you will be delighted to know you can couple that with a two-hour free-flow from 12pm to 2pm ($59), featuring a selection from red and wine wines, prosecco, Peroni lager and the signature Morning Star Koktail.

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Mimosa

The brunch menu comprises Mezze and Salads, Mains and Kebah. You can also opt for a Royal Brunch ($49 per person), a set which includes their pick of a brunch exclusive, paired with a glass of Mimosa to start, a choice of Fat Prince’s signature house dips, a mezze or salad, and a dessert of the day.

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Cured Salmon Crudo 4/5

Mezzes are great introductory dishes to Fat Prince's take on modern middle eastern's flavours. Served as a light appetiser, I enjoyed the mouth-filling texture of the Cured Salmon Crudo ($18) and the contrasting crunch from the sprinkle of Dukkah. The drizzle of Pomegranate Molasses and Smoked Date Puree layered the dish with notes of dark, caramelised sweetness, which complemented the savouriness of the cured fish really well.

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Cashew Hummus 4/5

Hummus lovers will not be disappointed with this Cashew Hummus ($10) - savoury, lemony and zingy; as compared to a chickpea hummus, it is more textured, which makes it all the more suitable for the soft, fluffy toasted yoghurt pita.

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Lamb Meatballs 4/5

The Lamb Meatballs ($18) was an aromatic dish with much emphasis on the use of herbs and spices. The meatballs were well seasoned, juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside. They sat on top of Chermoula, a Morrocan sauce which is a mix of garlic, herbs and spices, accentuated by a sprinkle of Za’atar and a handful of arugula leaves. There are a lot of heady flavours going on in one dish, and it is one good dish to order if you are here for their kotails.

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Negroni Rouge

I have to say, if you didn't go for their kotails, a Saturday at Fat Prince would be like any other Saturdays.  For a more cautious start, perhaps go for the Gimlet 100 ($20) with Roku Gin, Japanese cucumber cordial and citrus. For something a lot bolder, the menu features two renditions of Negroni: Negroni Rouge ($22) with Beefeater Gin, Mancino Rosso, peppercorn and juniper; and Negroni Blanc ($22) with Beefeater Gin, dill, Mancino Secco and gentianne. Even for the untrained palate, they came across as more balanced and rounded than what I had tried till date.

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Fatteh Breakfast 3.5/5

To hold the drinks, line your stomach with something hearty, such as the Fatteh Breakfast ($24). What a feast to the eyes to see a wholesome combination of poached eggs, halloumi and falafel served with yoghurt, baby spinach and toasted pita. What stood out for me is the falafel with a dollop of hummus, as well as the spiced eggplant stew. What didn't sit well with the dish was the eggs - Sous vide eggs ain't just the same as eggs that are skillfully poached in water, and in the case, the runny eggs messed up the plate the moment they were being broken.

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Mememen 3.8/5

The Menemen ($28) scores with its robust spiced tomato base, lightened with labneh (a creamy, yoghurt cheese) and toasted pita. You get a choice of either lamb or halloumi.  Every spoonful of the tender shredded lamb meat together with the deep savoury tomato was deeply satisfying. The dish could have fared even better if raw eggs were cracked directly into the spiced tomato. Our eggs were overdone, and I reckoned that was because those were pre-cooked eggs.

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Shakshuka Leek & Kale 3.5/5

Chef's vegetarian version of Shakshuka is this Shakshuka Leek & Kale ($20) - Baked Eggs, Leek & Kale Ragout, Dukkah and Toasted Pita. Although I don't quite agree that this embodies the authentic flavours of shakshuka, which can also be done in various meatless versions using eggplants, capsicums and so on, I appreciate it as a meatless dish that appeals on taste and texture. Interestingly, it reminds me of thunder rice tea with the diced leek and kale, along with the addition of ground nuts!

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Half Fried Chicken 3.5/5

The Half Fried Chicken ($24) was clean and straightforward, hitting us with the right amount of greasiness and flavours. The fried yoghurt batter was thin and crisped, and the accompanying sauces and pickles injected even more characters into this classic dish.

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Spiced Berry French Toast 3/5

Something sweet on the brunch mains, which can also be a dessert is the Spiced Berry French Toast ($21) - Brioche, Caramelised Banana, Preserved Lemon Ice Cream. The saltish housemade preserved lemon ice cream was a winner but the dense slices of thick-cut toast that tried to pass off as a legit brioche were disappointing. It was a pity as the spiced berry compote stuffed inside the toast was really delicious.

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Overall, the vibe that Fat Prince provides, on a Saturday morning, will set you right for the rest of your weekend.

Written and photography 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.


Fat Prince
48 Peck Seah Street
#01-01
Singapore 079317
Tel:+65 62217794
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm to 12midnight
Sat: 1130am -3pm, 6pm to 12midnight
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT Station. take Exit A. Turn right onto Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Friday, May 17, 2019

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

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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.

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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.

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Mixed Soup 4.5/5

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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.

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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]

Friday, February 22, 2019

Baan Ying @ Royal Square - The Great Baan Ying Brunch

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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Larb Moo Tod 3/5

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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.

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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.

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Rainbow Ruby 3/5

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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.

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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]

Monday, December 3, 2018

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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Carrot Cake 3/5

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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.

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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]

Thursday, October 4, 2018

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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]