Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe 大南洋 @ 111 Somerset - The Eatery’s Second Outpost Decked in Retro Decor and a New Store-Exclusive Menu

Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe first started introducing its range of nostalgic kopitiam-style fare and beverages at its flagship in Tanjong Pagar. Walking around 111 Somerset, you will surely notice this new second outpost boasting retro decor meticulously curated by founder Keith Kang. Diners can look forward to these Instagram-worthy corners around the eatery, paired with a store-exclusive menu.

Sai Ka Hor 3.8/5

We were first introduced to new beverages such as the Longan Tea ($3.80) and Sai Ka Hor ($3 for Hot, $5 for Cold). The Sai Ka Hor, a traditional concoction blending teh and milo, was done with a pleasant amount of sweetness. Hor Ka Sai is also available for coffee lovers ($3 for Hot, $5 for Cold).

Milo Toast 3.5/5

We started with a slice of Milo Toast ($3.50 for 1 Slice, $4 for 2 Slices) before moving on to the savoury offerings. The toast was decent, featuring thick yet crisp bread topped with a layer of Milo powder and a drizzle of condensed milk. It's definitely more ideal for those with a sweet tooth. If you prefer savoury options, there are choices like Cheesy Ham Egg Toast, Garlic Toast, and more.

Curry Chicken Toast 3/5

Following that, the Curry Chicken Toast ($7.90) was served. It featured a bowl of chicken curry accompanied by three slices of buttered toast for dipping. While the toast had a satisfying crunch, the smaller-sized chicken chunks were rather bony.

Curry Chee Cheong Fun 3.8/5

With a slight top-up, my dining companions and I found the Curry Chee Cheong Fun ($9.90) to offer better value for money. The thin strips of chee cheong fun were coated in their house-made curry, paired with french beans, deep-fried beancurd skin, and more substantial chicken chunks. Their curry is decently hearty with a manageable level of heat.

Claypot Mee Tai Mak 3/5

The Claypot Mee Tai Mak ($9.90) came next. The mee tai mak noodles were doused in a base of savoury gravy and topped with prawns, minced meat, mushrooms, and onions. Unfortunately, it lacked wok hei, and its flavours felt somewhat one-dimensional after a while. Dig into it while it is hot and mix in the egg yolk to avoid the mee tai mak becoming soggy.

Mee Goreng 3.5/5

Our next main was the Mee Goreng ($8.90). This eggy rendition carried a mild heat.

Penang Assam Laksa 3.5/5

It was a pity that the Penang Assam Laksa ($8.90) fell slightly short of expectations. While I appreciated that they used the classic thick assam laksa noodles, the broth lacked the ginger flower fragrance and tangy punch.

Popsicles 3/5

Continuing with the retro theme, desserts are the old-school Popsicles ($3) in Sour Plum, Hor Ka Sai, Kopi-O, Ribena, and more flavours. The portion of each popsicle is pretty big, but we also found it challenging to consume conveniently due to how it's packaged. The flavoured juice and ice could be better blended as well.

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.


Great Nanyang Heritage Cafe
111 Somerset Road
#01-09
Singapore 238164
Tel: +65 8753 1850
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Nearest MRT: Somerset MRT (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 730am - 830pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Mashi No Mashi @ Guoco Midtown - – Chef Hisato Hamada, founder of WAGYUMAFIA Opens 100% Wagyu Ramen Concept in Singapore

Mashi No Mashi, located at Guoco Midtown, is a ramen concept by Wagyumafia, a collective of restaurants renowned for harnessing the qualities and versatility of Japan's most famous beef through various culinary concepts. Founded by Chef Hisato Hamada, Wagyumafia prides itself on working directly with farmers and selecting only the top 1% of the finest Kobe and Ozaki beef. Since its establishment in 2019, Mashi No Mashi has been acclaimed for serving the world's first 100% Wagyu ramen.

Wagyu Tsukemen 4/5

The dish that brought Mashi No Mashi to fame is its signature Wagyu Tsukemen, featuring succulent slices of slow-cooked Ozaki beef paired with their signature noodles. The accompanying dipping broth, a 24-hour stewed Wagyu bone broth, was rich in umami and full-bodied, perfectly complementing the thicker-cut noodles with an enjoyable chewy texture. While the ramen as a whole provided a deeply satisfying mouthfeel and flavour, I found the alkaline taste of the noodles less appealing.

Ultra Wagyu Ramen 4.8/5

Ultra Wagyu Ramen ($22) is the brand's first-ever fukuoka Hakata-style ramen, and Singapore is the first outpost to permanently feature it on its menu. This beef-centric Hakata-style ramen broth is made using the finest wagyu bones, which undergo a laborious three-stage heating process to extract maximum flavour and aroma. The broth was an absolute pleasure to savour, together with the luscious pieces of wagyu char siew.

Wagyu Bak Kut Teh 4.5/5

This outlet also launched a Singapore-exclusive menu, starting with Wagyu Bak Kut Teh ($30). Served with a peppery homemade wagyu bone stock, traditional Bak Kut Teh purists may not favour this dish as much. Personally, I love this rendition, which was delightful with a heady, garlicky, and peppery broth. The texture and flavour of the meat were exceptional as well. However, with the price tag, it can definitely be more wholesome with the portions of the You Tiao and Preserved Vegetables.

Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi 4/5

There are also donburi options available, such as the Wagyu Cha Siu Donburi ($32), which showcases slices of Wagyu Cha Siu draped over Ginger Beef Akitakomachi Rice. The plump and pearly rice was so moreish mixed with flavourful minced ginger beef that it almost stole the spotlight.

Wagyu Gyoza 5/5

The Dim Sums here are highly recommended. Wagyu Gyoza ($8 for 2pc) uses 100% Ozaki Beef. Each piece was filled with four different cuts of juicy Ozaki beef and minced vegetables, achieving a succulent bite in every mouthful.

Wagyu Siu Mai 5/5

Offering a similar bite and satisfaction is Wagyu Siu Mai ($15). The texture was on point.

Sui Gyoza 4/5

The other two dim sums we tried were well executed: Black Bean Spare Ribs ($15), featuring Steamed Wagyu Spare Ribs with Black Bean and Garlic Sauce, and Sui Gyoza, boiled wagyu gyoza drizzled with tangy Japanese sansho chilli sauce. In fact, I enjoyed them much more than the traditional pork versions.

Black Bean Spare Ribs 4/5

More Singapore-exclusive dishes, such as wagyu laksa and hokkien mee, will be rolled out later in the year. An interesting beverage menu with inventive cocktails is also available, including Chef Hisato's proprietary rendition of a Singapore sling ($18).

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.


Mashi No Mashi
Guoco Midtown
124 Beach Road
#01-04
Singapore 189771
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Nearest MRT: Bugis (DT, EW Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit D. Walk to Tan Quee Lan Street. Turn left and walk down Tan Quee Lan Street to Beach Road. At Beach Road, cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station Take Exit F. Walk straight down Beach Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Rang Mahal @ Pan Pacific Singapore - Immerse in the Great Indian Celebration Feast by Award-winning Luxury Wedding Food Curator Sarita Bazaz

Rang Mahal, the esteemed Indian fine dining establishment at Pan Pacific Singapore, has rolled out The Grand Indian Celebration Feast in collaboration with Sarita Bazaz, the renowned international Indian Wedding food curator. From 12 April to 21 April 2024, patrons are invited to embark on a celebrative feast inspired by the classical Indian wedding experience.

The celebration promises to dazzle diners with its exquisite flavours and vibrant presentations, featuring a plethora of dining options, including a 5-course Thali, 7-course and 9-course degustation menus, buffet feasts, and à la carte offerings.

Weekdays 12, 15-19 Apr 2024
Lunch
- 5 course Lunch Thali
- 7 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu
Dinner
- 7 & 9 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu

Weekend 13-14 Apr, 20-21 Apr 20204
Lunch
- Wedding Feast Buffet
Dinner
- 7 & 9 course Degustation Menu
- A La Carte Menu

Khaaja Sevpuri 4.5/5

We started our dinner with a delightful basket of Papad and Kichiya accompanied by an assortment of chutneys and kachumar, setting the stage for the tantalising flavours to follow. The Khaaja Sevpuri, with its crispy layered papri adorned with Mumbai Street's special sevpuri masala, offers a burst of flavour atop its crunchy base.

Langostino Paturi 4.5/5

Experience a symphony of flavours with the Langostino Paturi, where succulent langostino is lovingly wrapped in banana leaf and pan-grilled, accentuated by a tantalising mix of mustard paste and spices that perfectly complement the sweetness of the shellfish.

Kadhi Kachori 4.5/5

Indulge in the playful Kadhi Kachori, a crispy and flaky pastry accompanied by a pour of yoghurt-based curry, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavours that dance on the palate.

Imli Sorbet 4.2/5

Refresh your palate with the sweet and tangy Imli Sorbet paired with tamarind candy. It provides a delightful interlude before the celebrative feast continues.

Thecha Biscuti 4.8/5

Savour the tender Murgh Mirchi Tikka infused with a smoky aroma, luscious Lehsuni Palak, and crispy garlic chips, which offer a harmonious balance of flavours and textures.

Himalayan Truffle Morels 5/5

Indulge in the exquisite Himalayan Truffle Morels, a rare delicacy served with aged parmesan and goat cheese, elevated by a sprinkle of truffle salt and oil, offering a rich and indulgent dining experience.

Hidden Gems 3.8/5

Delve into the unique yoghurt-based dish Hidden Gems, which unveils a treasure trove of textures and flavours. While the yoghurt may be overpowering for some, the dish offers a delightful exploration of contrasts.

Junglee Maas 4/5

Feast on the Junglee Maas, a flavorful biryani featuring succulent salmon. Though unconventional, the dish offers a tantalising blend of spices and aromas, complemented by fragrant steamed rice.

Stuffed Kulche 4.2/5

Conclude your savoury journey with Stuffed Kulche, a delightful blend of sweetness and spice paired with Amritsari Chole and Pyaz Ki Chutney. Made with maida flour and stuffed with a sweet and savoury potato mixture, these Kulche offer a tantalising burst of flavours — a fitting finale to an exquisite dining experience.

Lachhedar Jalebi, Garam Gur Chhena Payas, Paan Hand Churned Ice Cream 4.2/5

Wrap up your culinary adventure with a trio of sweets, including Lachhedar Jalebi, Garam Gur Chhena Payas, and Paan Hand Churned Ice Cream, each offering a symphony of flavours that leaves a lasting impression — a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable dining experience.

Drawing inspiration from Navaratna and Panchtatva philosophies, Sarita Bazaz has curated a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine and culture. Join us at Rang Mahal and immerse yourself in The Grand Indian Celebration Feast — an epicurean journey fit for royalty.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Rang Mahal - Fine Dining Indian Restaurant
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 3
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 63331788
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm
(for the promotion period 12-21 April 2024)

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk straight to destinatio. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Epicure Brunch @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - Indulge in Buffet Spread from 15 Live Stations Spanned Across the Hotel’s 3 Restaurants

The Epicure Brunch Buffet at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel boasts 15 live buffet stations spread across the hotel's three restaurants, promising a delightful array of options to suit every diner's palate.

Epicure Brunch 4.2/5

Held every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm, this brunch offers a diverse range of cuisines. From Food Capital, indulge in fresh seafood-on-ice; SanSara serves up traditional North Indian dishes, while Riverside Terrace, the hotel's newest addition, specialises in Josper grill creations like Wagyu ribeye and foie gras.

Prices for the buffet are as follow:
- $128++ for adults, $64++ for children aged 6-11
- Includes unlimited non-alcoholic beverages such as mocktails, juices and soft drinks.

- $158++ for adults
- Includes unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages such as prosecco, wine, beer, juices and soft drinks

- $188++ for adults
- Includes additional Veuve Clicquot Champagne

Seafood-on-ice

The Seafood-on-ice station was a popular choice among many diners as their first stop. It showcased a tower of fresh snow crab legs, scallops, mussels, clams, tiger prawns, lobsters, and more.

Seafood-on-ice

Our top two favourites among these options were the sweet and meaty snow crab legs and the briny oysters.

Cheese Table

The Cheese Table had a good number of options, with sides of nuts, dried fruits, and crackers to pair with them.

Smoked Salmon and Ham Cuts

Next to the Cheese Table, a spread of Smoked Salmon and Ham Cuts awaits. I enjoyed the various cuts of ham, and the smoked salmon came in several flavours.

Salad

For something lighter, look for the Salad Corner, which offers Idaho Potato and Mushroom, Mixed Seafood Salad, Mediterranean Quinoa Salad, and the option to make your own with their homemade dressings.

Bread Table

Bread lovers can find all types of bread at the Bread Table.

Carved Meats

Among the Carved Meats, expect Herb Marinated Prime Rib, Pork Rib, Barbecue Veal Rib and more.

Hot Food

Apart from the generous meat offerings, there was also a significant selection of other hot foods, including Grilled Vegetables, Sauteed Fish, and even the iconic combination of Fried Mantou and Singapore chilli crab. The Chilli Crab carried a good amount of fragrance and heat.

Hot Food

Another popular station among diners was the Grilled Scallops and plated Pan-Fried Foie Gras. Definitely give the latter a try! The buttery Foie Gras was topped with a tangy-sweet fruit sauce and raspberry sorbet.

Live Noodle Station

The chefs at the Live Noodle Station will prepare your Laksa or Prawn Noodles fresh upon request. There were also various boiled soups on the side.

Josper Grill Station

Grab the wooden pegs at your table to make your order at the Josper Grill Station. Dishes cooked a la minute include prawns and tender Mediterranean Octopus. After you order, they will be thoughtfully sent to your table.

Josper Grill Station

At the same station, I look forward to the well-seasoned Australian Lamb Rack, Wagyu Ribeye, and Roasted Chicken.

Crab Ravioli

Make sure that you do not miss out on the far end of the buffet line. Here, you can enjoy Pizzas, Truffle Fries, Tapas, and freshly cooked Pasta. We opted for the creamy Crab Ravioli.

North Indian Delicacies

At a surprise corner, explore quality North Indian Delicacies presented by the team of the new SanSara. From Lamb Bhuna Gosht to Dum Ke Murgh, get them to pair with a side of naan, roti or paratha, all fresh from the tandoor.

Dessert

Save some stomach space for Dessert from their exciting range. There was a Strawberry Chocolate Fondue, Cakes, Croffles, and Ice Cream — to name a few. If you had to pick, I would recommend checking out the Artisanal Chocolate counter. I especially adored the chocolates with tea-based flavours.

The Epicure Brunch buffet menu is rotational and subject to change.

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.


Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
392 Havelock Road
Level 1
Singapore 169663
Tel: +65 6233 1338
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Nearest MRT: Havelock MRT (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Sunday: 12pm - 3pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn left and walk to the traffic junction of Havelock Road and Kim Seng Road. Cross the road. Turn left onto Kim Seng Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Salut Private Dining @ Grange Heights - A New Private Dining Concept By Chef Karl Dobler

Celebrate and entertain your friends and loved ones in this beautiful, intimate space. Welcome to Salut Private Dining, a new dining concept helmed by Karl and Jessica - one with excellent culinary skills, the other with impeccable taste.

Austrian Chef Karl Dobler's culinary repertoire spans from Michelin-starred restaurants to luxury hotels across Europe and Australia. You might also remember him from Flutes Restaurant or then Restaurant Salut Private Dining in Dempsey. With great respect for classic flavours and culinary techniques, Chef Karl personally sources fresh seasonal ingredients and carefully prepares them. While contemporary European cuisine is his speciality, he is adept at Asian and Peranakan cooking and whips up a very popular Prawn Noodles. Meanwhile, Jessica works her magic to create the perfect ambience for your dinner event and can set the table for personalised themes. Tonight, we're enjoying a romantic candlelit table set with white roses and artfully strewn crystals.

As guests stream in, smartly dressed wait staff warmly welcome them with flutes of champagne and canapés of the most luxurious degree - smoked salmon with cream cheese & caviar, beef cheeks mini puffs and burrata & tomato mini toasts. Feel free to bring your own wines and spirits. There is no corkage charge. A generous policy!

A dish of Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio appears in front of us. It's delicately sliced and draped like a flower, drizzled with truffle soy dressing and some olive pearls.

As White Asparagus is in season, the Chef prepares it as a warm appetiser served with a soft hen egg, truffle hollandaise and bellota ham, which is the finest grade of Jamón ibérico with a smooth texture and a rich, savoury taste.

Next comes a pan-seared NZ Bass Grouper prepared with artichoke mash, edamame, and scampi glaze. The fish's flesh is firm, white, and flaky. Delicious!

We got to try the Chef's signature Crispy Roasted Suckling Pig, which had a crackling skin. It is served with smoked pancetta cabbage, rosemary potatoes, and star anise jus.

The dessert was well-timed. We caught an aromatic whiff of the soufflés baking as we were about to finish our main course. Out from the kitchen came those piping hot ramekins of Passionfruit Soufflé, baked with real fruit bits. It was delightfully melty and absolutely enjoyable.

We thought dinner had come to an end but were presented with Hand-rolled Hazelnut Chocolate Truffles. As a chocolate lover, I can only say that I wished I had the whole tray to myself.

Afterwards, a fine selection of Cheese, Dried Fruits, and Crackers accompanied the post-dinner wine and conversation.

Although newly opened, Salut Private Dining has already received strong interest from regulars, who invite Chef Karl to their homes for private catering. A minimum party of 6 persons is required, and the dining room can accommodate up to 20. Typically, a 5-course menu starts from $198 per pax, with no service charge or GST. If interested, do reserve at least 2 weeks to 1 month in advance.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavors and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Salut Private Dining
Grange Heights
15 Saint Thomas Walk
Singapore 238145
Tel: +65 9831 3067
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Nearest MRT: Great World (TE Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk to bus stop at Riva Lodge (Stop ID 13071). Take bus number 32, 54, 139 or 195. Alight 1 stop later. Walk to Saint Thomas Walk street. Turn right onto Saint Thomas Walk street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Great World MRT station. Take Exit 5. Walk down River Valley Road towards Saint Thomas Walk. Turn left onto Saint Thomas Walk. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]