Tiffin Room @ Raffles Hotel - Return of The Wondrous Flavours of Holi

Tiffin Room at Raffles Hotel is once again presenting Holi Festival Specialities, exclusively crafted by award-winning Chef de Cuisine Kuldeep Negi, at the historic Tiffin Room. The Wondrous Flavours of Holi will be available from 18 to 31 March 2024 for both lunch and dinner.

Stuffed Yellow Lentil Dumplings 3.5/5

Our dinner began with Chef Kuldeep's Welcome Dahi Gujia (Stuffed Yellow Lentil Dumplings With Sweet Yogurt, Tamarind And Spicy Mint Chutney), a beloved North Indian snack, involves lentils ground and shaped into a half-moon gujiya, generously adorned with yoghurt, tamarind chutney, coriander mint chutney, and an array of Indian spices. Combining the chutneys and spices resulted in an explosion of flavours - a delightful interplay of sweet, tangy, and savoury notes infused with aromatic undertones. The addition of nuts provided an enjoyable textural contrast to the chaat. Personally, I would have preferred a bit less of the tamarind chutney, as it leaned towards the sweeter side.

Pickled Spicy Tandoori-Grilled Chicken Wrap 4/5

Next is the Achari Murgh Tikka Kathi Roll, featuring Pickled Spicy Tandoori-Grilled Chicken Wrap served with Beetroot, Radish And Onion Salad. The chicken was tender and flavourful with a heady blend of spices, which was quite nicely balanced by the herbaceous mint chutney and the side salad.

Pan-Seared Black Cod 4.5/5

The Main Course was served in its classic tiffin set. Tawa Masala Fish was the crowd's favourite, featuring Pan-Seared Black Cod in a Special Blend Of Spices, Onion And Tomato Masala. The tangy and fruity sweetness of the masala complemented the inherent richness of the cod.

Boneless Chicken Leg 4/5

Murgh Madras is a crowd pleaser with tender Boneless Chicken Leg in curry rich in mustard seed and spices.

Pahadi Gosht 4.2/5

Pahadi Gosht is a rare treat that serves Himalayan-style Lamb Chop Curry with Fresh Herbs And Spices. The lamb was delightfully tender, and this more robust form of curry proved to be a good pairing with the meat's flavours.

Yellow Lentil Curry 3.5/5

The Tiffin set also includes Shahi Dal, a curry made with Yellow Lentil with Black Beans and Red Kidney Beans. I enjoyed the textural interplay of the various beans and lentils, but I prefer a more spice-forward curry that tastes bolder.

Tomato Mint Pulao 5/5

Butter Naan and Laccha Parantha 5/5

Despite the curries being the main focus, the Tomato Mint Pulao, Butter Naan, and Laccha Parantha truly stole the spotlight for me. The Tomato Mint Pulao was a delight, featuring light and fluffy basmati rice infused with the fragrant essence of mint and cardamom, punctuated by sweetness from softened fresh tomatoes. Both the naan and parantha proved equally satisfying, boasting the desired texture and a rich, buttery flavour that added a layer of joy to the overall dining experience.

Dessert 3/5

The Dessert is a platter of Makai Halwa, Gujia, and Gur Para (Sweet Corn Halwa, Traditional Sweet Dumplings Stuffed With Coconut And Dried Fruits, and Jaggery Bites). However, I found these selections a bit too heavy for a dessert course after the fairly rich dishes. Perhaps a lighter option would have provided a more balanced and refreshing conclusion to the meal.

Options of 2 glasses and 4 glasses alcoholic beverages pairing are available as well.

Photograph and written 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.


Tiffin Room
Raffles Hotel
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Tel: +65 63371886
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch: 12pm - 145pm
Dinner: 630pm - 845pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Tiffin Room @ Raffles Hotel Singapore - Celebrates Diwali With A Specially Curated Diwali Experience Menu

From 21 October to 7 November 2021, Raffles Hotel Singapore’s historic Tiffin Room welcomes you to join in their celebration of Diwali, the joyous festival of lights, with a specially curated Diwali Experience menu prepared by award-winning Chef Kuldeep Negi.

Golgappa Shots 4/5

The Diwali Experience begins with a classic cold appetiser of Golgappa Shots - deep-fried stuffed crispy bread complemented with three different fillings - mint, mango with sweet tamarind and yoghurt to evoke the nostalgia and celebratory spirit of the season. It is recommended to start with a little fiery Mint, followed by Mango with Sweet Tamarind, which is sour and ends the journey with sweet yoghurt. Spicy, sour, sweet and savoury, these little flavour bombs are indeed a great way to whet my appetite.

Tandoori Lobster 3/5

Next is a warm appetiser Tandoori Lobster, featuring Tandoori-grilled lobster served with onion fritters and mint chutney. While its flavour was good, especially with the smokey charred bits around the edges of the lobster, I found mine a little over-seasoned and overdone.
  

Main Course 4.5/5

Butter Naan. Carom Seed Laccha Parantha

The main courses are prepared and presented in the iconic tiffin box - Nariyali Gosht Chaap (lamb chops with rich coconut and mustard seed curry); Doi Mach (barramundi with yoghurt and spices); Sarson Da Murgh (boneless chicken leg presented in a mustard leaf gravy); and Kheema Pulao (premium Indian basmati rice cooked with minced lamb and perfumed with rose water and saffron). Freshly-made Butter Naan and aromatic Carom Seed Laccha Parantha will also be served to sop up the goodness of the curries.

Nariyali Gosht Chaap

Both the mustard seed curry and yoghurt curry were highly flavoursome and stimulating. The piquant and robust mustard seed curry balanced and complemented the gamey nature of lamp chops well.

Doi Mach

Whereas for a more delicated Barramundi, the tangy and sharp yoghurt curry brought out the meat's sweetness.

Sarson Da Murgh

Sarson Da Murgh reminds me of Palak Paneer. I genuinely enjoy this dark mustard leaf gravy that I didn't have the chance to try anywhere else.

Kheema Pulao

Last but not least, the Kheema Pulao. Perfumed with rose water and saffron, the Indian basmati rice was cooked with just the right amount of minced lamb to flavour the rice without overpowering it.

Petha Kheer with Mango Rabdi, Kaju Strawberry Burfi, Moong Dal Burfi 4.8/5

Rounding out the meal were sweet treats in which we had Petha Kheer with Mango Rabdi and two Mithai - a Kaju Strawberry Burfi and a Moong Dal Burfi. Served elegantly in a glassware, Petha Kheer layered with Mango Rabdi. The ash gourd with mango in a milk and saffron cream pudding itself was sweet and comforting. I like how the tartness of the layer of mango rabdi underneath balances the sweetness of the dessert. As for the Mithai, handmade speciality sweets of cashew nut and yellow lentil were among the finest I have tried. Best to have alongside a cup of Masala tea for a complete experience. Suppose you wish to spread the joy with your family and friends. In that case, the Mithais are available in a Mithai gift box containing handcrafted sweets in five delightful flavours.

The Diwali Experience will be available for lunch and dinner in both non-vegetarian ($98++ per guest) and vegetarian ($88++ per guest) options from 21 October to 7 November 2021. In addition, the Mithai gift box is available for takeaway and delivery via www.RafflesGrabandGo.com from now until 7 November at S$58+ for a box of 15 pieces in an assortment of five lovely flavours, including Churma Ladoo, Katli Aam, Moong Dal Burfi, Pista Paan and Kaju Strawberry Burfi. Orders of 100 boxes and above will enjoy a special rate of S$48+ per box.

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.


Tiffin Room
Raffles Hotel Singapore
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Tel:+65 64121816
Website
Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line), Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 2pm, 630pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Junction of North Bridge Road and Bras Basah Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit F. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Gabbar Bistro & Bar @ Clarke Quay - Spinning To A Mix Of Bollywood Music And Scrumptious North Indian Cuisine

Gabbar Bistro & Bar is a fairly new modern Indian bistro bar located at Clarke Quay. Its live Bollywood music performances often draws huge turnouts, where diners get to experience an international DJ spinning the latest Bollywood and Punjabi mixes over an extensive selection of drinks which includes wines, cocktails and Single Malts. However, customers return to Gabbar time and time again not just for its music, but to satisfy their cravings for a scrumptious North Indian cuisine.

Lamp Chops (tasting portion) 4/5 

The Lamb Chops here wins the hearts of the Indian diasporas and locals alike. Its mouthwatering aroma delivered my expectations. Marinated for 12 hours with hung curb and spices, the meat was succulent, tender, and flavourful with just the right amount of spices. For a drink and a quick bite, this serves equally good as a bar bite too.

Surkh Laal Chicken, Tikka Fish Amritsari and Hariyali Chicken (tasting portion) 4/5

From the tandoor, we tried Surkh Laal Chicken, Hariyali Chicken and Tikka Fish Amritsari. The reddish Surkh Laal chicken was punchy with spices with a tinge of heat. The Hariyali Chicken didn't lose out either with its well-seasoned, creamy spinach marination. I have had quite a few unpleasantly dry and bland Fish Tikka before, but the version here was moist and flaky.

Dal Makhani (tasting portion) 3.5/5

Dal Makhani is a comfort food, and also quite nutrient-dense with beans and black lentils. I would have liked it even more if it is slightly more tomatoey to have some tartness to balance the richness of it.

Assorted Naans (tasting portion) 4/5

Options aplenty for naans. We tried Roti, Tumeric, Olive and Cheese, Garlic, Butter and a Lachha Parantha. Each of them was soft and fluffy, but if you can only choose one, go for the Olive and Cheese naan for that full-bodied flavour.

Chicken Biryani 3.8/5

Chicken Biryani is a great option for a quick lunch. It seems like a basic dish, yet there is complexity in the use of spices and the way the rice is being cooked and put together with the meat. Mine was packed full of flavours but not too overwhelming with aromatics and spices. Hidden underneath the pile of fluffy basmati rice is load of tender chicken cubes.

Paan Ice Cream 4.8/5

If you visit Gabbar, do go for its Paan Ice Cream. Made with betel leaves, the sweetness and milkiness were at the right amount to mellow down the sharp herbaceous flavours of the betel leaves. The spiced and nutty topping intrigued my taste buds in every bite. It was such a unique and delicious ice cream, I strongly encourage you to give it a try.

 

Besides dining in, Gabbar Bistro & Bar also offers island-wide delivery for you to dine at the comfort of your home. You can order island-wide delivery at www.sgdelivery.online

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.


Gabbar Bistro & Bar
Clarke Quay
3B River Valley Road
#01-14
Singapore 179021
Tel: +65 87555597
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line), Clarke Quay (NE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT Station. Take Exit A. Turn right and down River Valley Road. Turn right onto Tan Tye Place. Walk to the end of the road. Turn left onto Clark Quay. Walk to destination. Journey time bout 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit C or G. Walk to the river front. Turn left and walk down the river. Cross the bridge. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Butter & Spice @ Katong Point - Budget-friendly Northern Indian Cuisine

Butter & Spice at Katong Point serves up Northern Indian cuisine at budget-friendly prices. It also sets itself apart from others by offering set menus. Priced at $10, each set meal comes with a side of basmati rice and naan, together with a main that is of a smaller portion compared to an ala carte order, hence making it great for solo diners.

Chicken Tikka Biryani 4.5/5

Despite its small space, Butter & Spice uses a tandoor for their cooking. What is a must-order here, is definitely the Chicken Tikka Biryani ($8.40). Each biryani is prepared only upon your order. Brimming with herbs and spices, the piquant masala gravy served at the side brightens the dish with zest and adds a final punch of flavour to every spoonful of the biryani. The generous amount of chicken tikka given was unexpected. Each chunk was tender and moist, carrying a hint of smokiness atop of their spiced marination. The portion is good for two persons.

Lam Saag 3/5

Lamb Saag ($13) is similar to Palek Paneer but with Lamb pieces instead of cottage cheese cube. I really like the spinach, which has the right amount of garlic to bring out its flavour. However, the lamb cubes was a tad dry and too gamey for my liking.

Garlic Naan 2.8/5

To go with your curries, a selection of tandoori-grilled naan is available in various flavours such as cheese, garlic, and butter. We had Garlic Naan ($2.10). I feel it can be softer and fluffier.

Prawn Butter Malasa (Tasting portion)  3/5

 Dal Makhani (Tasting portion) 3/5

On the menu, there are also seafood and vegetarian dishes such as Prawn Butter Masala ($14) and Dal Makhani ($10). Both fall short of the robustness that I expect, which would usually leave my tongue tingling with stimulation from the spices if I met a good one. I was told there was no tomato puree inside the Dal Makahi, which makes it even milder and creamier. However, if you like curry that is buttery and creamy, this will work for you, especially given that black lentil is starchier than yellow lentil.

End your meal with their Masala Chai Tea ($1 add-on). Freshly brewed with chai tea and finished off with fresh milk, just the way they have it back in their hometown.

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.


Butter & Spice
Katong Point
451 Joo Chiat Road
#01-01
Singapore 427664
Tel: +65 97776349
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Dakota (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sun: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Dakota MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to bus stop at Block 99 (Stop ID 81181). Take bus number 16. Alight 4 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey time about 15 minutes. [Map]

The Song of India @ Scotts Road - The Lesser Known Value For Money Weekday Buffet Lunch And Sunday Buffet Lunch

The Song of India at Scotts Road has been known for its Michelin-starred fine Indian dining. While the exquisite Indian cuisine is what many seek for, The Song of India also offers fuss-free weekday buffet lunches ($36.90) and Sunday buffet brunch ($46.90).

Salad and Chaat 3.5/5

Situated in a charming, old colonial bungalow, its tranquil site was simply perfect for a Sunday brunch. Starting my brunch with my usual greens, my good old salad plate was definitely spiked with much more zest and tang with elements such as Raita and Goan Brinjal Pickle. The popular street food Chaat was available too.

Tomato Shorba 3.5/5

I fell in love with this super tangy tomato and coriander broth at my previous tasting at Melt, Mandarin Oriental Singapore. This Tomato Shorba was less thick, but it was equally punchy. Its sourness made my face puckered up at times, but that is what made it so addictive.

Chillas 3/5

For some wholesome breakfast pancakes, there is a Live Chef's Food Station that serves Chillas, a savoury pancake made with gram flour, spices and herbs. I like its chewy texture, which allows me to enjoy its spiced flavours more.

Bhindi Tomato Malasa 4/5

Mirch Ka Salan 4/5

From the Mains, it was my first time trying Bhindi Tomato Malasa and Mirch Ka Salan, and I love them both! Although both were rather heavy dishes, there was a touch of tanginess in both dishes that balanced that richness. Mirch Ka Salan was especially memorable with its deep fried green chillies, which gave a kick of fieriness in every bite. That will leave you wanting for more.

Lamb Roganjosh 3.5/5

Another item worth raving about is the tender and mouthwatering Lamb Roganjosh. Best served with its Vegetarian Dum Biryani.

Butter Chicken 3/5

Fish Biryani 3/5 and Bengal Prawn Curry 3/5

Familiar dishes include Butter Chicken, and seafood options are available as well, such as Fish Biryani that was loaded with chunks of tandoori fish, and Bengal Prawn Curry.

Dum Potato Banarasi 3/5

Kadai Panner 3/5

The range of mains also covers a few meatless dishes such as Dum Potato Banarasi and Kadai Panner.

Sweets 3.8/5

Somehow, when comes to Indian cuisine, mixing in some sweets in between bites just makes the meal even more delish. I did that with Dried Fruit Rice Kheer and Baked Gulab Jamum. Both had the right level of sweetness. I usually shy away from the Gulab Jamum, but these cardamon sweet treats were perfect with my cup of Masala Tea.

And to go with all that curries, other than rice, you have freshly made naans that made all things finger-licking good.

The Sunday Buffet Brunch is also suitable for families as children under 12 dine for free. As it is Chef Mural’s philosophy and passion to spread the richness and diversity of regional Indian cuisine, menus are changed weekly to reflect a ‘journey through India’ through the dishes.

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.


The Song of India
33 Scotts Road
Singapore 228226
Tel: +65 68360055
Facebook
Nearest MRT: Newton (DT Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm

Direction: 
1) Alight at Newton MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to bus stop at Newton MRT station (Stop ID 40189). Take bus number 5, 54, 124, 128, 143, 162, 167, 171, 518 or 700. Alight one stop later. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about  6 minutes. [Map]