Oscar's @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - The Sea, Smoke & Spice New Themed Buffet Experience

Known for its generous spreads and lively live stations, Oscar's at Conrad Singapore Marina Bay presents two new themed dinner experiences: The Sea, Smoke & Spice and Flavours of Yesteryear. Celebrating both the bold and the familiar, each theme invites diners to savour distinct culinary stories, from flame-kissed signatures to comforting heirloom recipes.

We tried The Sea, Smoke & Spice theme buffet, and here's our review.

The evening begins with a refreshing taste of the sea. The Seafood Bar featuring freshly shucked Oysters, Slipper Lobsters, Mussels and Flower Crabs is not to be missed. We especially enjoyed the oysters that were sweet, plump, and incredibly fresh.

A surprise highlight was the freshly sliced Jamón. We recommend pairing it with the sweet melon from the fruit section for a classic, satisfying combination.

Another standout for us was the Mushroom Risotto. Served with whipped Chantilly and sautéed mushrooms, it's finished in a dramatic Parmesan wheel. The al dente rice was creamy and well-seasoned, with rich, earthy mushroom notes that packed a punch.

Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder

Chermoula Fish Pot

For those who love deep, bold flavours, the Slow-Roasted Lamb Shoulder, infused with aromatic spices, was tender and juicy, with a savoury richness. The Chermoula Fish Pot featured flaky fish marinated in North African herbs and spices. Both dishes were flavourful, though potentially a little heavy for those with lighter palates.

Oven Roasted Marinated Angus Beef Striploin

Pulled Beef Sliders and Marinated Spanish Octopus

The Oven-Roasted Marinated Angus Beef Striploin was a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with the variety of sauces offered. We found the Pulled Beef Sliders to be a little dry, although the flavour came through well. The Marinated Spanish Octopus, served on a soft jacket potato with sour cream and olive oil, leaned salty. While the potato was beautifully cooked, crispy on the outside and soft within, we found it slightly overpowered the octopus.

The heart of the Sea, Smoke & Spice experience lies at the Live Charcoal BBQ. Smoky and sizzling from the grill:

• Sticky Australian Lamb Ribs
• Spice-rubbed Hanger Steak
• Kurobuta Pork Tomahawk
• Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Locally farmed Barramundi and Tara-marinated prawns grilled just right added a coastal flourish to the mix.

Right next to the BBQ, don’t miss the Sizzling Tandoori Delights. We loved the Tandoori Chicken and Seabass, and the Chukandari Paneer Tikka stood out for its bold seasoning. Pair everything with fresh naan bread for a complete experience.

A must-have at Oscar’s: the Signature Seafood Laksa at the Live Noodles Station. Rich, creamy and comforting, served with tofu puff, prawns, fish cake and a quail egg.

Fresh Strawberries

Macarons

To end on a sweet note, the buffet's dessert selection is a dream come true for strawberry lovers. Fresh strawberries shine across shortcakes, praline tarts, mousse domes, and the signature Strawberry Romanoff. The fruit's tartness and aroma cut through the savoury dishes with perfect balance.

Almond Strawberry Tart

Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry-Inspired Chocolate Bar

Other strawberry-inspired delights include:

• Almond Strawberry Tart
• Strawberry Cheesecake
• Strawberry-infused Chocolate Bar
• Strawberry Panna Cotta
• Macarons

Strawberry Pannacotta

The Sea, Smoke & Spice dinner buffet is available from Wednesdays to Saturdays, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and is priced at S$96++ per adult and S$48++ per child (aged 6 to 12). Reservations are highly recommended at https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/oscars

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Oscar's
Conrad Centennial Hotel Singapore
2 Temasek Boulevard
Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 64327481
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 6am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking along Temasek Avenue to destination Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Keyaki @ Pan Pacific Singapore - A Refined Japanese Experience Under New Executive Chef Teruya Noriyoshi

Keyaki at Pan Pacific Singapore welcomes a new Executive Chef, Teruya Noriyoshi, at its helm. With over 28 years of experience, having worked alongside renowned chefs at globally acclaimed restaurants, including several Nobu outlets, Chef Teruya brings not just technical finesse but also a deep respect for seasonality and presentation that reflects the beauty of nature.

Amuse Bouche 5/5

The meal began on a high note with the Amuse Bouche, which featured a quartet of beautifully crafted bites that demonstrated a keen sense of balance and creativity. I started with the Foie Gras Terrine, which came piped into a crispy rice waffle. Infused with brandy, it was rich and luscious, doing a great job of whetting the appetite. The Octopus Carpaccio with White Shrimp followed, an exceptional pairing and meticulously plating of tender octopus carpaccio and creamy shrimp. The King Salmon Sashimi Spring Roll was light and refreshing, while the Japanese Sweet Corn Flan with Uni and Caviar delivered a bold, savoury-sweet finish that stood out for its intensity and creaminess.

Sous Vide Spiny Lobster 3/5

Next came the main appetiser, Sous Vide Spiny Lobster, with a White Miso Américaine Bavarois, Ikura, and Ume Jelly. It was aesthetically pleasing, but the texture of the lobster was slightly mushy at the ends. The Bavarois, despite being miso-based, turned out sweeter than expected, which slightly disrupted the overall balance.

Hokkaido Scallop 4/5

From the teppan counter came a perfectly seared Hokkaido Scallop topped with Wasabi Salsa and Caviar. The scallop was sweet and meaty, and the Wasabi Salsa gave it a bright lift that brought everything together.

Roasted A4 Iwate Wagyu 4.5/5

The main course featured Roasted A4 Iwate Wagyu, served with wasabi mashed potato and a Japanese egg yolk sukiyaki sauce. The beef was beautifully done, with enough fat rendered to bring out all its rich, deep flavours. The sukiyaki sauce, enriched with egg yolk, added a luscious umami boost, and I liked that the mashed potato had a rustic texture, which helped keep the dish grounded and not overly rich.

Nigiri 3.5/5

Following that was a sushi course with three types of Chef's selection Nigiri — Amberjack, Kinmedai, and Suzuki. The fish was fresh, and each piece offered a nice variation in texture and flavour, though I did find the rice just a little grainy in some bites.

Dessert 5/5

The dessert was a wonderful finish. A bittersweet Matcha Mizu Chocolate paired with delicate homemade Wagashi and seasonal fruits. The chocolate was smooth and paired nicely with the strawberry, but the wagashi was the real highlight, one of the best I've had, soft with the right amount of sweetness, carrying the classic flavours of a Japanese sweet.

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.



Keyaki
Pan Pacific Singapore
Level 4
7 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039595
Tel: +65 6826 8240
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (DT, CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

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

Altro Zafferano @ Ocean Financial Centre - A Bright and Bold Refreshed Menu in Celebration of Southern Italian Flavours

Altro Zafferano, perched atop Ocean Financial Centre, returns with a refreshed dining concept centred on everyday social dining. Known for its refined Italian cuisine, the restaurant now embraces a more vibrant and approachable experience, bringing the warmth, boldness, and sun-soaked flavours of Southern Italy to the heart of Singapore's CBD. With a bright Mediterranean spirit and a reimagined menu, Altro Zafferano continues to impress with culinary finesse and soulful, honest cooking.

Pomodoro e Basilico 4/5

We started with the Pomodoro e Basilico ($15), a comforting focaccia that embodies the rustic charm of Italy. Made in-house with sourdough and baked until golden, the base is topped with sweet Neapolitan tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The tomatoes are the star. They are plump, juicy, and bursting with natural sweetness, elevating this humble starter with their vibrant, sun-ripened flavour.

Insalata di Polpo e Patate 4.2/5

The Insalata di Polpo e Patate ($28) showcases a tender Mediterranean octopus paired with baby potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a medley of herbs like parsley, chervil, and chives. The light gremolata dressing lifts the dish with citrusy brightness and herbal freshness, tying all the components together into a well-balanced appetiser that awakens the palate.

Carpaccio di Manzo, Pecorino e Senape 4.2/5

The Carpaccio di Manzo ($26) features Australian grain-fed beef sliced and rolled with rocket leaves, pecorino cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Topped with finely chopped shallots and dressed in a whole grain mustard vinaigrette, each bite is a complex interplay of peppery greens, savoury cheese, tangy balsamic, and tender beef. It is a refined starter with great textural contrast and depth.

Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese 4.5/5

A standout from the pasta section, the Fusilloni con Ragu alla Genovese ($36) is rich, hearty, and comforting. The artisanal pasta from Southern Italy is coated in a slow-cooked Genovese ragu made from onions and Australian Wagyu beef, simmered in red wine for six hours. Finished with parmesan, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary, this dish delivers soul-soothing depth and perfect al dente texture.

Rigatoni alla Gricia 4/5

Prepared tableside for a bit of flair, the Rigatoni alla Gricia ($36 per pax) is a decadent experience. The pasta is tossed inside a pecorino cheese wheel, soaking up all the rich, salty goodness, then topped with crispy guanciale and a bold pepper blend of Sichuan and black pepper. A luxurious treat especially for cheese lovers, balanced by the smoky-savoury punch of guanciale.

Tagliata di Manzo, Rucola e Balsamico 4.2/5

For mains, the Tagliata di Manzo ($68) is a masterclass in simplicity done right. The Black Angus grain-fed striploin is grilled over a Josper to seal in juices and flavour, seasoned with rosemary oil, thyme, and fennel seeds, and finished with a drizzle of Lambrusco balsamico. Served alongside fresh Italian rocket and cherry tomatoes, the dish is full-bodied, tender, and focused entirely on letting the quality of the beef shine.

Branzino all'Acqua Pazza 4.5/5

The Branzino all’Acqua Pazza ($58) was another highlight. The beautifully deboned Sardinian seabass, reassembled with the head and tail intact and baked in a delicate broth of vegetable stock, tomatoes, white wine, olives, and parsley. Finished with extra virgin olive oil and Amalfi lemon, the fish is moist and flaky, its flavours lifted by the bright citrus and briny broth. Elegant and satisfying.

Tiramisu 4.5/5

We ended on a high note with the Tiramisu ($24). This refined rendition layers mascarpone cream with gluten-free Savoiardi biscuits, soaked in espresso, orange peel, and a touch of Cointreau, then dusted with cocoa. The dessert is smooth and light, offering just the right balance of bitterness and sweetness, a sophisticated and well-balanced end to the meal.

With its reimagined focus on approachable yet elevated Southern Italian cuisine, Altro Zafferano offers a vibrant dining experience that blends tradition with creativity. Whether you’re here for a business lunch, romantic dinner, or a weekend indulgence, the restaurant’s new menu invites you to savour Italy’s bold flavours in the heart of Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Altro Zafferano
Ocean Financial Centre
Level 43
10 Collyer Quay
Singapore 049315
Tel: +65 65091488
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Nearest MRT: Raffles Place (EW Line, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 11pm)
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Raffles Place. Take Exit C. Walk to Ocean Financial Centre which is on the left. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Big Wine Freaks @ Bukit Pasoh Road - Champagne and Wine Restaurant with Ingredient-forward Cuisine

Big Wine Freaks at Bukit Pasoh is a Champagne and wine restaurant with an outstanding wine selection that showcases labels from a new generation of star producers, natural wines from renowned French regions, and rare picks from unique micro-farms. Channelling the same electric energy as their Moscow origins, the space is brought to life by Sabrina Bignami and Alessandro Capellaro of B-Arch Architectural Bureau in Florence. It's an expressive blend of light, colour, and texture, a setting that speaks about the experience that they want to offer. Their ingredient-forward menu features a raw seafood bar, bite-sized starters, vegetables, and mains cooked over an open-fire grill.

Oysters 3.5/5

Daily from 5.30pm to 7pm is the time for Aperitivo ($58), which I believe is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Big Wine Freaks. We were served a Cichetti Assortment comprising Oysters, Trout Gravlax, Parma Ham, Arancini, and Padron Peppers.

Parma Ham 4/5

Trout Gravlax 5/5

There was plenty to love about this assortment. It offered a satisfying balance of cold and hot starters and, more importantly, the rich mouthfeel and savouriness that pair beautifully with their wines and Champagne. Both the Parma Ham and Trout Gravlax stood out for their indulgent textures, especially the latter, with its tangy and mustardy toast and delicate ribbons of gravlax that paired perfectly with the glass of Gounel-Lassalle Esprit Voyager we had.

Padron Peppers 4.5/5

Arancini 4.5/5

The Arancini were well executed too. Encased in a crisp golden crust was a molten mixture of rice, mozzarella, and Jamon, made even more indulgent with the accompanying aioli. Rounding off the plate, the blistered Padron Peppers were juicy and vibrant, adding a fresh green bite that nicely balanced the lineup.

Octopus 3/5

The mains feature selections from the Josper Basque Grill. The Octopus ($58) was incredibly well cooked, with a texture and flavour that stood out as one of the better renditions I've had. Unfortunately, the dish was slightly let down by an oversprinkle of finishing salt.

Beef Short Rib 3/5

For the Beef Short Rib ($46), while the meat wasn't as tender as hoped, it made up for it with flavour. The caramelised, charred exterior imparted a depth and smokiness that was deeply satisfying.

Donut 4.5/5

Dessert was a pure joy. The fluffy Donuts, filled with berry jam and custard, were a delightful way to end the meal. While I would have preferred the custard to be a touch lighter, the overall experience was still indulgent and comforting.

There's also a noticeable attention to detail when it comes to presentation. Each dish is served on dinnerware by Ginori 1735, the renowned Florentine porcelain house now under the creative direction of Alessandro Michele. The wine-by-the-glass list is equally thoughtful, featuring over 40 rotating options that highlight fresh finds from their cellar. Every glass is served in exceptional stemware, featuring brands such as Zalto from Austria, Sydonios from France, and Kimura from Japan, which further elevates the overall experience.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling loves the feel of freedom, the smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Big Wine Freaks
44 Bukit Pasoh Road
Singapore 089857
Tel: +65 6019 0765
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (EW, NE, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 530pm till Late
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn right and walk down Teo Hong Road. Walk to Bukit Pasoh Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

MoVida @ Raffles City - Affordable San Sebastian-Inspired Lunch Set from $29

Movida introduces a wallet-friendly San Sebastian-inspired lunch set, starting from just $29 – an attractive deal given its prime city centre location. Available daily from 12pm to 3pm, the set lets diners choose from 2 Tapas + 1 Main for $29, 4 Tapas + 1 Main for $35, or 5 Tapas + 1 Main for $40. Perfect for foodies looking to sample a spread of dishes in one sitting, this offering brings variety and value to the table.

We went with the 4 Tapas + 1 Main option, and since there were two of us, we managed to sample a total of 8 tapas. It gave us an excellent overview of the selection available.

Crab Crumpet 4/5 and Home-made Duck Rillette in Crumpet 4/5

The Crab Crumpet (+$2) was a delightful one-biter. It is light, fresh and elegantly paired with saffron emulsion and finger lime. Meanwhile, the Home-made Duck Rillette in Crumpet was richer and more flavourful, featuring confit duck, pipparas, gherkin and a touch of oriental mustard for contrast.

Tuna Tartare with Grilled Avocado 4/5

Tarteleta 4.2/5

Two tapas stood out in particular. The Tuna Tartare paired well with roasted avocado and a bright citrus dressing, a refreshing and well-balanced dish. The Tarteleta (+$2), a brik pastry tart filled with chicken liver parfait and verjuice, surprised us. Despite usually avoiding liver, this tartlet delivered a burst of flavour that was both rich and nuanced.

Anchoa 3.8/5

Pan con Tomate & Jamón 3.5/5

The Anchoa (+$2) – a Cantabrian artisan anchovy with smoked tomato sorbet – impressed with its quality and pleasant saltiness. However, as we shared it, the portion felt a little too small to savour fully. The Pan con Tomate & Jamón was classic but unremarkable, with a faint 'bad oil' aftertaste on the bread that distracted from the otherwise fresh components.

Croqueta Del Dia 4/5

Octopus with Panchetta 3/5

The Croqueta del Día, made with Manchego cheese, was a comforting and well-loved classic. Ask the staff about the daily flavour. On the other hand, the Octopus with Pancetta was a miss – the pancetta overpowered the octopus entirely, which got lost in the bite.

Gambas al Ajilio 3.5/5

Paella del Día 4/5

For mains, we tried the Gambas al Ajillo and Paella del Día. The gambas were fresh and crunchy but let down by burnt garlic, which left a bitter finish. The portion also felt a little small as a main, though the preceding tapas helped to fill us up. The highlight was the Paella, a squid ink version with calamari and fish. It is bold, briny, and well-executed.

Flan 3.8/5

Churros con Chocolate 3.8/5

For an additional $8, you can opt for dessert. Our pick is always the Churros, served with a chocolate sauce, but it was a bit too diluted for our liking. While the texture was crunchy, we missed the chewy centre we're accustomed to. The Flan, a creamy Spanish-style caramel custard, was pleasantly spiced and complemented by pestinos pastries that reminded us of masala chai. The third option available is a Spanish-style Rice Pudding.

Lychee Blossom and Aperol Spritz

Top up $4 for non-alcoholic beverages like Lychee Blossom or Shirley Temple, or $8 for alcoholic options such as Kalimotxo or Aperol Spritz. These make great pairings to round off your lunch.

Movida's new lunch set offers a solid, value-for-money experience that encourages exploration of Spanish flavours. While there were hits and a few misses, the variety and affordability make this a worthwhile option for a satisfying midday indulgence in the heart of the city.

Photos and words by Jaslyn. An avid cook who lives to eat and travel for food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


MoVida
Raffles City
252 North Bridge Road
#03-43
Singapore 179103
Tel: +65 83808509
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW, NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 10pm

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