Beach Road Kitchen @ JW Marriott Singapore - The All New Chefs-On-Show Dining Sunday Champagne Brunch

Beach Road Kitchen at JW Marriott Singapore welcomes you back with their latest Sunday Champagne Brunch, featuring a new Chefs-On-Show dining format to elevate your dining experience. The roving live stations prepare food live by your table, including some tableside theatrics that one can look forward to.

Artisanal Cheese with Fig Jam and Crackers 4/5

Their Sunday Champagne Brunch costs $108 per adult, and with a $50 add-on, you are entitled to a free-flowing Moët & Chandon’s Grand Vintage 2012. With a glass of champagne in hand, the roving Gourmet Cheese Station entices me even more!

Chef's Salad 3/5

64-Degree Egg Benedict with Truffle 4/5

For a light start, we had some aesthetically pleasing Chef's Salad. Moving on to their 64-Degree Egg Benedict with Truffle, there is nothing not to love about it, especially given that the egg was exceptionally creamy.

Cold Seafood Platter 3.8/5

Before other hot dishes arrived, we were served a Cold Seafood Platter with poached prawns, Alaskan King Crabs, Poached Lobster.

Grilled Lobster with Herbs and Garlic 4/5

Iberico Pork 3.5/5

Seabass 4/5

From the Charcoal Grill, one of the highlights is definitely the sumptuous Grilled Lobster with Herbs and Garlic. Our Grilled Catch of the Day was Seabass, which was well done with crispy skin, and we enjoyed the Iberico Pork just as much.

Salt-baked Barramundi 4.5/5

One of the main tableside theatrics is this Salt-baked Barramundi that is flambeed right before us. Stuffed with aromatic ingredients such as kaffir lime leaves, the moist and tender flesh was perfumed with herbaceous notes.

Roasted Striploin 3/5

Slow Baked Salmon 4/5

From the Carving Table, the Slow Baked Salmon was one of my favourite dish of the day, and it outshone its counterpart Roasted Striploin with its crisp skin and tender flesh that was consistent on every order.

Chilli Crab with Mantou 3.5/5

Local delights are also the stars here, such as Chilli Crab with Mantou from the Wok Flambe station. The sauce was on the milder side, but it was quite balanced without being too sweet.

Lobster Laksa 4/5

I enjoyed the Lobster Laksa much more, not solely because of its luxe factor, but for its robust gravy which was light and flavourful at the same time.

Nasi Lemak Tart 4.5/5

For dessert, there is a range of sweets available in the menu. Still, I suggest leaving space for the roving dessert showcase which serves one of the most incredible desserts inspired by local dishes and flavours - Nasi Lemak Tart. It was sweet but not cloying, coconutty and spicy with the quintessential Nasi Lemak chilli layered in between. It was memorable.

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. 


Beach Road Kitchen
JW Marriott Singapore South Beach
30 Beach Road
Singapore 189763
Tel: +6568181913
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Lunch (Sat): 12pm - 2pm
Brunch (Sun): 12pm - 3pm
Dinner (Fri - Sun): 6pm - 9pm

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

The Grumpy Bear @ SAFRA Jurong - Serving Signature Chicken Chops With A Local Twist

The Grumpy Bear specialises in western cuisine and is known for its chicken chops that come with a variety of choices. It operates a few outlets in Singapore, with its latest opening at SAFRA Jurong. This new outlet has incorporated local flavours into its menu, alongside with its own range of ice creams.

Nasi Lemak Chicken 3.5/5

On the menu, you will find 2 interesting dishes with a local twist - Nasi Lemak Chicken ($18.90) and Grumpy Chicken Rendang ($18.90). Served with herb rice, fried egg and a dollop of sambal chilli, the oven-baked Lemak Chicken Chop was aptly flavoured with spices, tender and succulent. The quintessential sambal chilli was on the sweeter side, but it still very much brought out the full Nasi Lemak experience. In place of the usual fragrant coconut milk rice is herb rice that was aromatic with Italian herbs, and equally enjoyable. The fried egg can definitely be better.

Chicken Rendang 4/5

The Oven Baked Grumpy Chicken Rendang is made using herb rice topped with hearty chunks of Chicken baked and baked in special Rendang sauce. The rendang sauce was heady and robust with spices, and I love how the slices of tomatoes released bursts of tangy juiciness into the rich sauce. The rice was in distinct grains, which worked well with the rich chicken rendang.

Creamy Pasta with Prawns 3/5

There is also a variety of pasta. We tried Creamy Pasta with Prawns ($16.90). It was decent, but it wasn't satiable at all.

Mushroom Soup 2/5

As for sides such as Mushroom Soup, I suggest giving them a miss and just head for their chicken dishes and desserts. Mine had a strong taste of flour, and the croutons were simply stale bread crumbs.

Waffle with Ice Cream 3.8/5

The Grumpy Bear can also be the place of consideration for waffles and ice creams. The Grumpy Bear has its own range of ice cream, ranging from classic to premium. We tried Red Velvet Waffle with Pistachio and Blueberry Yogurt ice creams. The waffle was pretty fluffy with a crisp exterior, and the ice creams were light and not cloying.

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.


The Grumpy Bear
SAFRA Jurong
333 Boon Lay Way
#2B-02
Singapore 649848
Tel: +65 82996261
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Nearest MRT: Boon Lay (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 930pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction: 
1) Alight at Boon Lay MRT station. Take Exit C, D and E and walk to Boon Lay Bus Interchange (Stop ID 22009). Take bus number 251. Alight 2 stops later. Walk to destination. Journey about 10 minutes. [Map]

Raffles Courtyard @ Raffles Hotel - Newly-launched Weekend Brunch Menu With Asian And Western Delights

Raffles Courtyard at Raffles Hotel now presents a new weekend brunch menu to include both Asian and Western delights, as well as healthy beverages to fuel you for the rest of the week.

Antipasti 3/5

If you are reaching out for some bubbly or wines, the Antipasti ($58) would be ideal for 3 to 4 pax. It comes with an Anchovy spread, selection of Cold Cuts, Smoked Salmon, Marinated Vegetables, some cheeses and a couple of raisins. The Anchovy spread was really yummy, and to appreciate its flavours, simply spread it onto the breads that is served with the antipasti. The bunch of raisins was abit awkward on the plate, a handful more dried fruits would definitely help to make this platter more complete.

Avocado Tartine 2.8/5 

You can go for ala carte or create your own Courtyard Brunch ($28) which will provide you with a Main Course, a Cold Beverage and a Hot Beverage. For Main Course, I had a Tartine from the Heartier Options category, that is to be topped with Avocado Hash, Guacamole, Toasted Pine Nuts, Rocket and Parmesan Cheese (ala carte $22). Although this dashed my hopes of a creamy, satisfying avocado toast luxe for carrying only a thin spread of Guacamole and heaps of rocket, the refreshing bitter greens that was beautifully salted, in combination with the toasty pine nuts, was very much enjoyable.

For beverages, there are some interesting choices for juices, customisable smoothie and teas.

Kaya Toast Set 3.5/5 

From the Asian Delights, the Kaya Toast Set delights with its thick slices of butter and mellow sweet kaya. I hope the toasting of the bread can be improved over time, as mine felt like it needed a minute more. It comes with traditional kopi or teh.

Popular local items such as Nasi Lemak and Mee Goreng are also available, as well as the quintessential egg-centric dishes which can be found in the Protein category.

The weekend brunch is served on weekends from 930am to 3pm.

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.


Raffles Courtyard
Raffles Hotel
328 North Bridge Rd
Singapore 188719
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 3pm - 10pm
Sat-Sun: 930am -10pm

Direction:

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

The Lobby Lounge @ Shangri-La Hotel Singapore - Experience Local Hawker Fare For Breakfast At Weekend Semi-Buffet

In collaboration with local hawkers to serve authentic local hawker fare, The Lobby Lounge, Shangri-La Hotel Singapore presents their Breakfast Buffet with an enticing array of local heritage dishes for everyone to enjoy iconic hawker fare in town, all under one roof. The authentic Singaporean breakfast spread showcase 6 specially curated Singaporean breakfast items from the ala carte menu, which include: Nasi Lemak ($19) from The Coconut Club; Roti Prata with Dhalcha and Fish Curry ($12) from Springleaf Prata Place; Carrot Cake ($12) from The Lobby Lounge’s Chef Yong Jia; Dry Wanton Mee ($14) from Shang Palace’s Executive Chef Mok Kit Keung; Soft Boiled Eggs with Kaya Toast ($12) from The Lobby Lounge’s Signature; Hainanese Porridge ($12) from The Lobby Lounge’s Signature.

Nasi Lemak 4.2/5

Prepared with the original recipe from The Coconut Club, a Michelin's Bib Gourmand Singapore 2018 awardee, the Nasi Lemak ($19) is a perfect medley of flavours. It featured a base of aromatic pandan-scented rice infused with coconut milk and served with an array of topping including the crispy anchovies, peanuts, fried egg, sliced cucumber and homemade sambal chilli for that kick of spice. The dish is completed with a crispy chicken leg deep fried till golden brown.

Dry Wanton Mee 4/5

A perennial favourite amongst the locals, the Dry Wanton Mee ($14) features soft and springy al dente noodles tossed with a special black sauce and barbequed pork by Shang Palace's Chinese Executive Chef Mok Kit Keung. The dish is topped with tender char siew and crunchy leafy greens and accompanied by a bowl of flavourful pork and shrimp dumpling soup.

Hainanese Porridge 3.8/5

The Hainanese Porridge ($12) is a simple, comforting bowl of breakfast. The silky congee is cooked with tender minced pork balls and meat slices, with the flavours enhanced with a dash of sesame oil and ginger. Served with a side of crispy fried strips of Youtiao to dunk into the porridge, perfect for soaking up the goodness.

Savour other nostalgic dishes in line with unlimited helpings of it, such as a plate of economic bee hoon, luncheon meat, cabbage and fried egg.

Soon Kueh 4/5, Chwee Kueh 4.2/5

We love the signature Soon Kueh by Ah Yee. A popular Teochew snack in Singapore, it is made with hand-kneaded dough from rice-tapioca flour. What we like is the tender and springy skin with the right amount of bite to it. The fillings are generous - an aromatic combination of shredded carrots, black fungus, turnip and dried shrimps.

The Chwee Kueh - Tiong Bahru Jian Bo Shui Kueh’s signature dish is also a favourite. Yet another popular Teochew snack well-loved for its firm rice cakes topped with sweet and savoury preserved radish. It's the perfect breakfast to kickstart your morning with.

Chee Cheong Fun 3.8/5

The Chee Cheong Fun hit the spot with its thin silky smooth skin and generous glaze of sweet black sauce. Perfectly springy and chewy, the delicate rice rolls had us going back for more.

Photos and words 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.


The Lobby Lounge
Shangri-La Hotel Singapore
Lobby Level
22 Orange Grove Road
Singapore 258350
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 730am - 1am

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk towards Wheellock Place via ION. Exit Wheellock Place and turn left towards Liat Tower. Cross the road at the traffic light junction and turn left towards Royal Thai Embassy. Walk down to the end of Orchard Road. Turn right onto Orange Grove Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 23 minutes. [Map]

White Rose Cafe @ York Hotel - Unlimited Servings Of Penang Hawkers' Fare From 13 December 2019 to 1 January 2020

The ever-popular Penang Hawkers' Fare returns for the thirty-third years at York Hotel from 13 December 2019 to 01 January 2020. Diners will get to savour a variety of Penang street food from the twelve live stations at White Rose Cafe.

Penang Rojak 4/5

Kick start the Penang street food feast with the refreshing Penang Rojak that consists of diced cucumbers, jambu and pineapples, tossed in savoury sweet prawn paste and topped with peanuts.

Char Kway Teow 4.2/5

Not to be missed is the packed with wok hei Penang Char Kway Teow. The dancing chef has also made a return this year. Be entertained by her move while she swings into a rhythm while frying the rice noodles. This is less sweet compared to the local version and a little spicy too.

Roti Canai 4.8/5

I have attended previous Penang Hawkers' Fare, but I have yet to try the Roti Canai. I am glad they brought back the roti canai stall. I really enjoyed the crispy and fluffy texture of the flatbread, paired with either the Dhal Curry or Chicken Curry. This is my favourite dish for the latest edition of the Penang Hawkers' Fare.

Nasi Lemak with Nonya Chicken Kaptian 4/5

Simply irresistible is the Nasi Lemak with Nonya Chicken Kapitan. Besides the fragrant nasi lemak rice, the die for is the succulent Nonya chicken kapitan, a dry version of the chicken curry. This is paired with homemade sambal chilli and crispy ikan bilis.

Lor Bak 4/5

Good for sharing or to go along with your other dishes is the Lor Bak. On the plate, you will get five-spice meat rolls, prawn fritters and deep-fried bean curd served with homemade chilli sauce and a thick soy-based sauce.

Oyster Omelette 4.5/5

Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside are the Oyster Omelette. This is best enjoyed together with the tangy chilli sauce.

Cuttlefish Kang Kong 4/5

A dish that is hardly seen nowadays is the Cuttlefish Kang Kong. The crunchy cuttlefish and water convolvulus are matched with a sweet and slightly spicy sauce together with quality prawn paste, and peanuts.

Penang Laksa 4.2/5

For noodle dishes, there are Penang Laksa, Penang Prawn Mee, Kway Teow Soup and Dry. If you enjoy something sour and spicy, then the Penang Laksa will be an appetising choice with its tangy tamarind fish-based broth.  The addition of pineapple, cucumber and torch ginger gives the bowl of thick rice noodles a distinctive fragrance and refreshing note. Add a dollop of prawn paste to crown the flavour profile.

Penang Prawn Mee 4.2/5

For the Penang Prawn Mee, the bowl of noodle is packed with a comforting and robust stock that has been laborious boiled for hours comprising of prawn heads, shells and pork ribs.

Kway Teow Soup 4.5/5

Kway Teow Dry 4/5

If you want something light, there is the Kway Teow Soup. The smooth flat rice noodle comes in a light yet refreshing soup, together with fish balls, fish cake and shredded chicken. A dry version is also available.

Ice Kachang 4/5 and Chendol 4.2/5

Wrapping up the meal on a sweet note with the Ice Kachang and Chendol. Given a choice, I would go for the chendol for the used of fresh fragrant coconut milk, which usually is substituted with those instant ones.

Ban Chang Kueh 4/5

If you still have space for some dessert, the Ban Chang Kueh is not to be missed. The crispy pancake shell is folded into half with a spoonful of margarine, ground peanuts and sugar. Crispy on the edges while chewy inside.

Price
Weekdays (lunch and dinner): $29++ per adult | $20++ per child
Weekends and PH (lunch and dinner): $33++ per adult | $23++ per child

Note: This is an invited tasting.


White Rose Cafe
York Hotel
21 Mount Elizabeth
Singapore 228516
Tel: +65 67370511
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 630pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk down Scotts Road towards Goodwood Park Hotel. At Goodwood Park, turn right and walk to the end of the carpark. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]