Filo Bistro @ Upper Thomson Road - Family-Run Bistro Offering Western Cuisine with Asian and Local Influences

"First in, last out" is what Filo Bistro set out to achieve when it first opened its doors at Upper Thomson a year ago. Unlike the more casual dining spaces in the vicinity, Filo offers a more elevated yet cosy experience, one meant to be so memorable that guests feel reluctant to leave, living up to its motto of being the "first in, last out." The team has now decided to bring together the most beloved dishes from both the Brunch and Dinner menus into a single Unified Menu, launching on 1 September.

Crispy Halibut 3/5

To start, the Crispy Halibut with Yuzu Mayo ($18) made for a delightful finger food. The airy batter encased firm and flaky slices of halibut, while the citrusy yuzu mayo added a creamy lift to the overall mouthfeel. However, I preferred a thinner crust, considering that the flesh is rather delicate.

Asahi Clams with Sourdough 5/5

From the appetisers, the Asahi Clams with Sourdough ($22) was a standout. Its soul lay in the broth, crafted with Asahi beer and Japanese sake, an aromatic mix carrying a waft of alcohol, a depth of umami from kombu, and natural sweetness from the clams. The toasted sourdough bread was served as a vehicle to soak up all the goodness of the broth, though it would be more practical to serve them warm in a basket lined with cloth rather than in a dim sum steamer.

Hokkien Mee Paella 4/5

The menu highlights Western cuisine with Asian and local influences, most evident in the Hokkien Mee Paella ($32). The rice was well infused with the flavours of a rich pork bone and prawn broth, offering both bite and depth. An assortment of seafood ingredients gave the dish a hearty texture, while the use of calamansi in place of lemon was a brilliant nod to a local delight. Still, the addition of a punchy sambal further reinforced that connection.

Aged Crispy Pork Belly 2.5/5

Less successful was the Aged Crispy Pork Belly ($32). While the skin delivered the desired crunch, the meat itself was tough, and the flavours didn't quite benefit from the ageing process. The accompanying Thai curry barley risotto, though robust in flavour, leaned overly creamy and somewhat cloying, as the barley seemed to have been stirred into a curry cream base rather than cooked together. A more balanced approach could be presenting the risotto topped with bite-sized pieces of crispy pork belly, allowing one to enjoy both elements in a single spoonful and achieve a better harmony of textures and flavours.

Eternal Blossom, Filo Signature

To complement the food, the drinks menu features curated gin-based cocktails such as Eternal Blossom, alongside a thoughtful selection of coffees and teas. An interesting option is the iced Filo Signature, a mild coffee infused with pandan extract, prepared in-house.

For those seeking a more intimate dining spot in the Upper Thomson area, Filo Bistro offers a distinctive alternative, presenting an elevated yet homely experience.

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.


Filo Bistro
265 Upper Thomson Road
Singapore 574392
Tel: +65 8347 5888
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Nearest MRT: Upper Thomson (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Thur - Tue: 1130am - 3pm, 530pm - 10pm
(Closed on Wed)

Direction:
Alight at Upper Thomson MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Pura Brasa @ Guoco Tower - All New Pinchos Menu Featuring Spanish Snacks From S5 and Caviar Add-ons at Just $15

Pura Brasa, the Spanish grill restaurant known for its bold flavours and signature Josper-grilled dishes, has just launched a brand-new Pinchos menu packed with irresistible bites perfect for after-work drinks, weekend catch-ups, or a flavour-packed snack. Each pincho is affordably priced from $5 to $9 for two pieces, with the option to elevate your experience with indulgent caviar add-ons at just $15 for two scoops.

We sampled eight out of the twelve newly introduced Pinchos, and while each item arrives as a one-biter, don't be fooled – these small bites are bursting with robust, satisfying flavours. Served in pairs, they're deceptively filling and moreish.

Txaka

Pincho De Gamba

Pincho Moruno

From the ocean, the Txaka (crab salad pincho) stood out with its creamy, indulgent texture and real crab meat on toast. The Pincho de Gamba, with juicy prawns, romesco sauce and house-made aioli, brought brightness and punch. At the same time, Pincho Moruno – marinated Iberico pork with Biquillo peppers delivered smoky depth on a crisp slice of toast.

There's something here for every palate, whether you lean towards seafood or meat. With the most premium option priced at just $9, the Pinchos are not only flavourful but offer fantastic value. They also pair brilliantly with a glass of cava, sangria or a classic gin tonic, making them ideal for a casual, flavour-forward evening.

Charcoal Seafood Paella

For those looking to round out the meal with a main dish, we highly recommend the Charcoal Seafood Paella ($39 for small / $61 for large). Rich, deeply savoury and brimming with fresh prawns, mussels and baby octopus, this paella is one of the most flavourful we've had in Singapore. Cooked over charcoal, it carries a smoky aroma and delivers the coveted crispy "socarrat" at the bottom if you let it sit before diving in. It may lean slightly salty for some, but for those who enjoy bold flavours, this is not to be missed.

Whether you're stopping in for a quick bite or planning a relaxed meal with friends, Pura Brasa's new Pinchos menu adds a fun, flavour-packed dimension to its already stellar Spanish line-up. Wallet-friendly and expertly executed, these bites are designed for sharing, delivering both great taste and value.

The Pinchos Special is available on weekdays 3-6pm, and weekends 12-6pm.

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


Pura Brasa Singapore
Guoco Tower
#01-16
5 Wallich Street
Singapore 078883
Tel: +65 6386 9678
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and 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]

Nomada @ Keong Saik - Where Tradition Meets Bold Perspective, Where Every Flavour Tells A Story

A recent addition to the lively Keong Saik restaurant scene, Nómada has quickly become a buzzworthy spot, even drawing a full house on a weekday evening when we visited. Chef Gonzalo Landin, formerly of Binomio and Set of Six, brings his global culinary expertise to the table, serving Spanish cuisine with a modern, innovative twist.

The décor at Nómada showcases rustic Spanish charm with a sleek, contemporary elegance, featuring warm lighting and earthy tones. For private events, there's also a curtained-off area towards the back of the restaurant for a more intimate setting.

Upon reviewing the menu, it's clear that Chef Landin doesn't shy away from incorporating adventurous ingredients, making Nómada an exciting choice even for the seasoned foodie. If you're game to try something a little different, there's chicken liver, ox tongue and even pig ears on the menu! But don't worry if that's not for you — the à la carte format ensures everyone can choose something you'll enjoy.

Homemade Flatbread with Za’atar 4/5

We started our dinner with the Homemade Flatbread with Za'atar ($16), a starter featuring Za'atar — a traditional Middle Eastern spice blend. This aromatic mix typically combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac, and toasted sesame seeds. The flatbread was soft and pillowy, topped with goat cheese and rocket.

Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada 3/5

Next, we were served Grilled Oyster with Spicy Sobrasada (2pcs, $16), which had a vibrant presentation thanks to the sobrasada. This soft spread, made from cured pork sausage and seasoned with paprika and other spices, brings a smoky flavour to the dish. However, the combination of the spicy sobrasada and the oyster didn't particularly complement each other.

Squids, Lemon & Parsley Sauce with Squid Ink Emulsion 4.2/5

I much preferred the Squid with Lemon & Parsley Sauce and Squid Ink Emulsion ($26), where the lemon and parsley sauce really stood out. Zesty and fresh, it was so delicious that I found myself going back for more. The squid itself was sufficiently tender with a slight chewiness, the subtle taste of the squid allowing the brightness of the sauce to shine through.

Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower 4/5

The Braised Short Ribs on the Bone with Cauliflower ($38) was a comforting dish that delivered hearty, savoury flavours. The short ribs were cooked very well, with a fork-tender texture. However, the dish gets a bit heavy and slightly oily after a while, so it's best to share it.

Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage 4.5/5

Between the beef and pork dishes we tried, we unanimously agreed that the Iberico Pork Chop, Apple Cider Gels and Hipsy Cabbage ($38) was our preferred choice. The pork chop was juicy and tender, with a hint of pink in the centre. We also loved the apple cider gel's subtle sweetness and tanginess, which added a lovely balance to the taste of the pork. The apple cider gel is also something interesting and different from the apple sauce you usually get with pork chops.

Iberico Pluma Rice 4.8/5

I was very impressed with the Iberico Pluma Rice ($68), a paella dish served in a large, shallow pan. The rice was rich and savoury, having absorbed the full depth of the broth and seasonings. The texture of the rice was slightly chewy, offering a substantial mouthfeel and delightfully crispy bits at the bottom and sides. Cooked with Iberico Pluma, a tender cut of pork, this dish satisfied my paella cravings.

Custard & Nutmeg Tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream 4/5

At first glance, I mistook this for a cheesecake, and perhaps it was inspired by the cheesecake and given a little twist. The Custard & Nutmeg Tart, paired with Salted Caramel Ice Cream ($16), featured a velvety custard filling, subtly spiced with nutmeg, whilst the salted caramel ice cream lent this dessert a sweet and salty creaminess.

Nómada's menu is different from traditional Spanish restaurants, with a style sure to appeal to those who enjoy bold, intense flavours. The restaurant features an open-concept kitchen, allowing diners to watch the chefs at work, though it also means you might leave with a slight smokiness on your clothes.

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


Nomada
1 Keong Saik Road
#01-05
Singapore 089109
Tel: +65 8209 7809
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Nearest MRT: Outram Park (DT, EW, TE Line), Maxwell (TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm
Sat: 530pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Keong Saik Road. Turn right onto Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Sensu @ Keong Saik Road - A Bold Fusion of Japanese and European Flavours

Sensu, a fresh addition to Keong Saik Road, redefines Japanese dining by infusing it with the bold, robust notes of European cuisine. The result is a concept that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique, creating an elevated dining experience that appeals to adventurous foodies and purists alike.

Uni & Sakura Ebi Capellini 4.2/5

We began with the Uni & Sakura Ebi Capellini ($32), a dish that embodies slurping indulgence. The silky capellini is adorned with sakura ebi and nori, topped with creamy uni, and brought together by a zesty lemon confit. The balance of umami and brightness made this dish an absolute delight.

Black Truffle Chicken Wings 4.2/5

A standout from the menu, the Black Truffle Chicken Wings ($18 for 2 pcs), offers a luxurious twist on a classic favourite. Deboned chicken wings are stuffed with fragrant summer black truffle and sticky rice, all encased in a golden, crispy skin. Each bite was an explosion of textures and earthy flavours.

Sakura Ebi Fritter 4.5/5

The Sakura Ebi Fritter ($15) is visually stunning, fried to a perfect golden brown with a delightful crunch. The sakura ebi and hanaho add a touch of elegance, while the accompanying garlic aioli provides a rich and flavourful punch, enhancing the dish’s crispy goodness.

Hokkaido Scallop 4.8/5

The Hokkaido Scallop, with its dim sum-like presentation, reminded me of a dish straight out of Culinary Class Wars on Netflix. The scallop was plump, sweet, and encased in a crispy outer layer. This dish perfectly blended sophistication and comfort, paired with a luscious crustacean sauce elevated by vin jaune.

Seafood Paella 4.5/5

The Seafood Paella ($58 for 2 pax / $115 for 4 pax) is the epitome of Sensu's Japanese-European fusion philosophy. The dish harmonises the savoury notes of land and sea, featuring carabinero prawns, crispy baby squid, chorizo, and cherry tomatoes. Instead of traditional Spanish rice, premium Koshihikari rice is used, adding a delicate Japanese twist. The dish is further elevated with a crispy socarrat layer at the base, which provides a satisfying texture contrast.

Lamb Rack 4/5

The Lamb Rack was grilled to perfection, showcasing a tender, medium-rare interior with a beautifully charred exterior. Served with black garlic, artichoke purée, garlic shoots, morels, and lamb jus, the dish offered a robust, earthy flavour profile that lingered pleasantly on the palate.

Myriad of Citrus 4/5

We ended with the Myriad of Citrus ($12), a dessert as playful as it is refreshing. Resembling a piece of salmon sashimi, it is composed of lime granita, lemon, orange, and grapefruit. This dessert strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, leaving a clean and invigorating finish to an extraordinary meal.

Sensu’s innovative fusion of Japanese and European cuisines sets it apart in the competitive dining scene of Keong Saik Road. With a menu that seamlessly marries bold, robust flavours with delicate Japanese nuances, Sensu delivers an unforgettable dining experience that food enthusiasts won’t want to miss.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Sensu
27 Keong Saik Road
Singapore 089134
Tel: +65 9017 7631
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Nearest MRT: Maxwell (TE Line), Outram Park (DT, EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sat: 12pm - 23pm, 6pm - 1030pm
(Closed on Sun, Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Outram Park MRT station. Take Exit 4. Walk straight towards Kreta Ayer Road. Turn right onto Keong Siak Road. Walk down Keong Siak Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Maxwell MRT station. Take Exit 3. Walk straight down Neil Road to Teck Lim Road. Turn right onto Teck Lim Road. Walk down Teck Lim Road to Keong Saik Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 mintues. [Map]

Kulto @ Amoy Street - Bringing Vibrant Spanish Flavours to Singapore

Kulto, located along Amoy Street, has garnered a loyal following for its authentic Spanish fare, surviving even the challenges of COVID-19 in Singapore's highly competitive food scene. Having heard much about the restaurant, I had the opportunity to visit recently and try a selection of their dishes. It was a meal that transported my taste buds to Spain, right in the heart of Singapore.

Jamon Iberico Croquettes and Truffle Mushroom Croquettes 4/5

We started with the Jamon Iberico Croquettes and Truffle Mushroom Croquettes, and they set the tone for the rest of the evening. Deep-fried to a perfect golden brown, each croquette boasted a crisp exterior while the inside was irresistibly creamy and pillowy. The savoury Jamon Iberico and earthy truffle mushroom filling made for delightful bites — simple yet packed with flavour.

Iberico Pork Belly with Piquillo Peppers & Caramelized Onion Pintxos 4/5

Next, we tried the Iberico Pork Belly with Piquillo Peppers & Caramelized Onion Pintxos. A slab of chargrilled Iberico pork belly was served atop a piece of toasted bread, and the pork itself was rich and flavourful. The caramelized onions added a perfect sweetness, cutting through the richness of the pork and creating a balanced and satisfying bite.

Salmon Tartare, Crispy Avocado & Almond Cream 4.5/5

A standout dish of the evening was the Salmon Tartare, Crispy Avocado & Almond Cream ($26). At first, the combination seemed unusual, but it turned out to be a unique pairing that worked surprisingly well. The freshness of the salmon paired beautifully with the creamy avocado, while the almond cream brought everything together with its rich, nutty flavour. It is a harmonious and inventive dish that I'd happily order again.

Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic Chilli Sauce, Hummus & Hazelnuts 4.8/5

I'm a fan of roasted cauliflower, having tried an excellent rendition at Kulto's sister restaurant. When I saw the Roasted Cauliflower ($24) on Kulto's menu, it was a must-order for me. This version did not disappoint — the spicy kick from the garlic chilli sauce elevated the charred and crunchy cauliflower. The creamy hummus and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts further enhanced the dish, adding multiple layers of texture and flavour.

Iberico Pork Rib Eye with Celeriac Puree & Broccolini 250g 4.5/5

For the main protein, we opted for the Iberico Pork Rib Eye with Celeriac Puree & Broccolini ($38). The pork rib eye was perfectly cooked, with a beautiful char on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. The accompanying celeriac puree was smooth and earthy, complementing the pork, while the broccolini added a touch of freshness to round off the dish. It is a hearty and satisfying choice for those who enjoy robust flavours.

Squid Ink Paella 4.5/5

A highlight of Kulto's menu is their Squid Ink Paella, which comes in two sizes ($55 for a small portion, $75 for a larger one). Looking around the dining room, it was clear this dish was a crowd favourite, with many tables opting for it. The squid ink-infused rice was rich with the briny essence of the sea, and the dish was loaded with seafood, including seabass, mussels, clams, and squid. Every bite bursts with flavour, making it a must-try if you're a paella fan.

Kulto Cheesecake 5/5

To wrap up the meal, we indulged in the Kulto Cheesecake ($16). This dessert was a showstopper. Creamy and cheesy with a beautifully caramelized top, it had just the right amount of richness. The biscuity base added a satisfying crunch, while the accompanying raspberry ice cream helped cut through the cheesecake's richness. It was the perfect way to end the meal and is a definite must-have for any visit to Kulto.

Kulto impresses with its vibrant and flavourful Spanish fare, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the best of Spanish cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's cosy and laid-back ambience adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great spot to enjoy with friends and family. Whether you're in the mood for a rich Squid Ink Paella or looking to end your meal on a sweet note with their creamy Kulto Cheesecake, this Amoy Street gem delivers in every way.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Kulto
87 Amoy Street
Singapore 069906
Tel: +65 96205626
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Nearest MRT: Telok Ayer (DT Line), Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 12pm - 230pm, 530pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Cross Street towards Amoy Street. Turn left onto Amoy Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit G. Follow the covered walkway to the junction of Mccallum Street, Telok Ayer and Amoy Street. Turn left at the junction onto Amoy Street. Continue on Amoy Street to the end of the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 10 minutes. [Map]