Genki Sushi @ Somerset - Catch Genki Sushi’s Limited-Time Collaboration with Spy x Family From 19 Sep to 3 Nov 2024

Spy x Family fans are in for a treat as Genki Sushi rolls out a limited-time collaboration menu featuring 10 exclusive creations inspired by the popular anime. Available at all Genki Sushi outlets islandwide, the special menu brings beloved characters to life through a range of dishes.

Genki Premium members can also redeem a limited edition Anya Tote Bag with a minimum spend of $50 while stocks last.

Anya’s Beef & Peanut Butter Maki

One of the signature items is Anya's Beef & Peanut Butter Maki ($4.90), which reflects Anya's love for peanuts. This sushi roll features a quirky combination of short plate beef, cucumber, and a housemade peanut sauce.

Ebi Mentai Maki 3/5

Another sushi roll creation is the Ebi Mentai Maki ($4.90), filled with shrimp, tamago, and cucumber, then drizzled with rich mentaiko sauce.

Chicken Stew 3/5

For a comforting option, the Chicken Stew ($6.90) offers a bowl of chicken chunks, potatoes, and carrots, served with tamago and star-shaped rice. Although we found the rice too dry, the stew itself was pretty satisfying.

Hiyashi Tanuki Udon 3.5/5

On the cooler side, the Hiyashi Tanuki Udon ($4.90) is served chilled with chewy udon noodles dressed in Japanese Goma sauce, complemented by crabstick, tamago, cucumber, and crispy tempura bits.

Stellar Ebi Katsu 3/5

The Stellar Ebi Katsu ($2.90) was created in celebration of Anya's first ‘Stellar Star’ earned. This star-shaped shrimp cutlet is deep-fried and served with mayonnaise.

Anya Croquette 3.5/5

Another fried treat is the Anya Croquette ($2.90), which comes adorned with an Anya imprint. The crispy croquette is served with Tonkatsu Mayo sauce, giving it a flavour profile reminiscent of okonomiyaki.

Clam Chowder 3/5

The soup option on the menu is a creamy Clam Chowder ($3.90) with bits of clams, carrots and potatoes.

Kaisen Gunkan 3/5

Lastly, the Kaisen Gunkan ($4.40) offers a mix of different sashimi cubes topped with a bit of spice.

Kani Salad Edo-mae 3.5/5

In addition to the themed items, we also had a couple of dishes from the regular menu. The Kani Salad Edo-mae ($3.60) consisted of rice wrapped in sweet omelette and topped with crabstick shreds.

Aburi Maguro 2.5/5

The Aburi Maguro ($3.40) was unfortunately over-torched, taking away from the fish's natural flavour.

Parfait 2.5/5

To end the meal on a sweet note, two themed desserts are on offer. The Bond Mofu-Mofu Parfait ($6.40) and Spy x FamilySpecial Parfait ($6.40) both feature existing soft serve flavours - Hokkaido Milk and Matcha, decorated to fit the Spy x Family theme. Each is topped with honey stars and a chocolate piece featuring the character Bond.

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.


Genki Sushi
313@somerset
B2-03
313 Orchard Road
Singapore 238895
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

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

Royal Host @ Jewel Changi Airport - Pioneer of Japanese-Western Food Opens Its First Direct Store Outside Japan

Renowned as the pioneer of Japanese-Western food, Royal Host boasts over 200 stores in Japan and a legacy spanning over 50 years. Now, this beloved household family restaurant has opened its first direct store outside Japan at Jewel Changi Airport. With its extensive history and reputation for delicious Japanese-Western comfort food, Royal Host brings a much-anticipated culinary experience to Singapore.

Onion Gratin Soup 4.2/5

We commenced our dinner with a comforting bowl of Onion Gratin Soup ($7.80). This homemade consommé, sweetened by caramelized onions, features a slice of toasted baguette loaded with melty Gruyère cheese. I recommend leaving the baguette to soak up the delicious soup for a bit longer for an even richer experience. This soup is a long-standing bestseller of Royal Host, gaining fame when Marilyn Monroe praised it during her honeymoon to Japan in 1954.

Kale Salad 3/5

For a healthier option, we tried the superfood Kale Salad ($19.80). This crunchy kale salad is complemented by plant-based meat, blueberries, and a special peanut oil salad dressing that adds an aromatic finish. It's a refreshing and nutritious choice that perfectly balances the meal.

Omurice with Demiglace Sauce 4/5

The Omurice with Demiglace Sauce ($26.80) is a must-try. Fresh eggs flown all the way from Kyushu prefecture create a creamy omelette that tops fluffy Japanese ketchup rice. For a unique twist, there's a Singapore-exclusive version featuring Singapore Chilli Sauce and Snow Crab on top. The dish combines traditional Japanese flavours with a local touch, making it a standout item on the menu.

Hamburg with Brown Butter Sauce 4.5/5 

Royal Host's signature item is their Japanese Hamburg. We sampled the "ROYAL" Hamburg Steak with Brown Butter Sauce ($29.80), served sizzling on a hot plate. Made using premium-quality beef typically reserved for steaks, the hamburg is seared to perfection, achieving a beautiful exterior char while maintaining a succulent and juicy texture. There's also a Singapore-exclusive Black Pepper Sauce version for those who prefer a bit of heat.

Parfait and Hot Fudge Sundae 4.5/5

We indulged in the Parfait and Hot Fudge Sundae ($18.40) to wrap up our meal. The dessert menu offers three categories: Parfait, Ice Cream, and Cake. Our choice, the Parfait and Hot Fudge Sundae, was delicately layered with tantalizing flavours in each layer, providing a delightful end to our dining experience.

Royal Host's debut in Singapore at Jewel Changi Airport is a delightful addition to the local culinary scene. With its rich history and dedication to quality, the restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese-Western comfort food that is both nostalgic and innovative. Whether you're craving a hearty bowl of soup, a nutritious salad, or a sizzling hamburg steak, Royal Host promises a memorable dining experience that brings the best of Japan to Singapore.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Royal Host
Jewel Changi Airport
78 Airport Boulevard
#03-219
Singapore 819666
Tel: +65 6908 5591
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Nearest MRT: Changi Airport (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 10pm

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

Eden Restaurant @ Pullman Singapore Orchard - Vibrant Asian Flavours with Contemporary Interpretations by New Executive Chef Martin Tan

Eden Restaurant at Pullman Singapore Orchard has recently unveiled an updated menu thoughtfully designed by its newly appointed Executive Chef, Chef Martin Tan. This refreshed culinary offering spans from inviting small plates and bao buns to more substantial sharing platters, maintaining the vibrancy of Asian flavours with contemporary interpretations.

Sticky Pork Belly 4.5/5

Kam Heong Grilled Octopus 3.5/5

We had Kam Heong Grilled Octopus ($32) and Sticky Pork Belly Bao Bun ($18/2 pcs) to start. The latter exceeded expectations, providing a more satisfying experience. The pork belly showcased an ideal balance of fats and meat, achieving a tender texture that was spot on. Its braised flavour was quite on point, particularly when combined with the layer of salted vegetables within the bun. On the other hand, while the grilled octopus was skillfully prepared, the subtle Kam Heong glaze failed to make a distinct statement in the overall dish.

River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels 4/5

On the menu are two wok dishes for sharing. We had the bright-looking River Prawns, Scallop, Local Farmed Mussels ($44) in Tangy Coconut Gravy, served with a Charcoal You Tiao. The standout element was the vibrant coconut gravy, boasting a delightful acidity that enticed us to savour each spoonful. While the prawns and scallops were expertly seared, a slightly firmer texture of the prawns would have enhanced the overall experience.

Pan-Fried Black Cod 4.8/5

For mains, Pan-Fried Black Cod ($42) with Thunder Tea. As a Hakka, I must commend the fine execution of the Thunder Tea, particularly with the addition of roasted peanuts — a hallmark of a traditional Thunder Rice Tea dish. The innovative pairing of the tea with cod fish was a delightful surprise, as the tea's astringency and the cod's richness complemented each other flawlessly. The cod, adorned with crisped skin, added an extra layer of deliciousness to the dish.

Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack 3/5

On the other hand, the Hae Bee Hiam Australian Lamb Rack ($48) could have been more impressive. The standout feature for me was the tangy Sesame-Fermented Sauce, which skillfully complements the inherent gamey taste of the lamb. However, the expected presence of the Hae Bee Hiam glaze was somewhat lacking. Perhaps sous vide preparation wasn't the ideal way to achieve precise doneness, and the overall texture of the lamb left a bit to be desired.

Coconut Frozen Parfait 3/5, Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly 3/5

For desserts, we had Coconut Frozen Parfait ($16) with Pineapple Nage and Osmanthus Chia Seed Jelly ($16). The parfait was interesting, with a sprinkle of pink peppercorn, which lent a peppery fragrance and nuanced flavour. However, using riper and juicier pineapples instead of our unripened ones would have elevated its tastiness. The latter was refreshing with Kaffir Lime and Mango cubes thought a reduction in sweetness would have been ideal.

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.


Eden Restaurant
Pullman Singapore Orchard
Level 4
270 Orchard Road
Singapore 238857
Tel: +65 6603 8888
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Sun-Wed & PH: 6:30am - 11pm
Thu-Sat 7 Eve of PH: 6:30am - 12midnight
Sun - Wed & Public Holiday: 630am - 11pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to Orchard Road. Turn left and walk down Orchard Road. Walk to traffic junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

UYA @ Oasia Hotel Novena - Savour Outlet-exclusive Specialty Dishes and Signatures At UYA's Second Outlet

Uya, renowned for its top-notch unagi dishes, has opened its second outlet at Oasia Hotel Novena. This unagi restaurant offers a range of outlet-exclusive specialty dishes and signature creations that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. With a focus on quality, Uya sources live eels directly from fisheries on a weekly basis, ensuring the freshest ingredients for their dishes. These live eels are then prepared a la minute in various mouthwatering renditions by Uya's team of experienced Japanese chefs, led by the talented head chef.

Grilled Unagi Fin 4/5

Grilled Unagi Head 3.8/5

Diners can expect an array of new and irresistible bites crafted to complement Uya's selection of Japanese sakes, shochu, and beers. Among the highlights are three specialty skewers glazed in Uya's signature homemade sauce. The Grilled Unagi Fin ($6/Stick) and Grilled Unagi Head ($6/Stick) are perfect for those who appreciate the traditional Japanese way of enjoying different parts of the eel.

Yahata Maki 4/5

For a unique Kyoto specialty, try the Yahata Maki ($9/Stick), which combines crunchy and slightly bitter burdock root wrapped within tender unagi.

Smoky Unagi Ham 4/5

One standout dish is the Smoky Unagi Ham ($16). This tightly-rolled unagi is lightly seasoned with salt and grilled over sakura wood chips, imparting a distinct smoky ham-like flavor. The accompanying velvety cream cheese adds a rich mouthfeel, resulting in a delightful combination of flavors.

Crispy Unagi Bone 3.5/5

At Uya, you'll also encounter unique offerings like the Crispy Unagi Bone ($6), which provides a thin and crispy chip-like texture, a surprising treat for those unfamiliar with eating eel bones.

Liver Ponzu 2.5/5

Deep Fried Liver 2.5/5

Grilled Liver 3/5

Adventurous eaters can opt for the Eel's Liver prepared in three ways: Boiled ($9), Grilled ($9), and Deep-fried ($9). While the boiled version is served with ponzu sauce to balance the gaminess, the grilled and deep-fried variations help mask the intense flavors of the liver.

Oyster Tempura 3/5

Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the Oyster Tempura ($14), featuring plump and juicy Hiroshima oysters wrapped in shiso leaf and accompanied by a crispy coating. While the dish is served with salt, a tangy sauce could elevate the overall flavor profile.

Mullet Roe with Radish 3/5

Another a la carte dish at Uya is the Mullet Roe with Radish ($19). This dish showcases the savory and perfectly balanced flavors of mullet roe paired with white radish. The combination creates a delightful taste experience; however, it may be an acquired taste for those unfamiliar with enjoying mullet roe in its naked form.

Grilled Eel with Salt 4/5

One of Uya's expertly-executed offerings is the Grilled Eel with Salt ($23/$33/$46). This seemingly simple dish requires meticulous preparation, including filleting, deboning, butterflying, skewering, and grilling the eel with just the right amount of salt. This careful technique ensures that the natural flavors of the eel shine through, resulting in a delectable and satisfying culinary delight.

Healthy Unagi Rice Bowl 4/5

For those seeking a complete meal, Uya offers set meals that come with a side of refreshing and tangy salad, pickles, and miso soup with a hint of yuzu zest. The Healthy Unagi Rice Bowl ($29) features tender eel, natto (fermented soybeans), nagaimo (Japanese mountain yam), okra, sous vide egg, and garnishes like spring onions, seaweed, and Japanese ginger. However, the sticky mucilage from the ingredients may not be to everyone's liking.

Hitsumabushi Large 4.2/5

Hitsumabushi Medium 4.2/5

Undoubtedly, the highlight of Uya's menu is the Hitsumabushi ($35/$48). Served in two sizes, this bowl showcases glistening golden-brown unagi atop fluffy Niigata rice. Accompanied by a trio of condiments (spring onions, wasabi, and crispy nori), homemade umami dashi, pickled cucumbers, and miso soup with yuzu zest, the Hitsumabushi offers three ways to enjoy it. You can savor the original flavors of the grilled unagi and rice, enhance it with your choice of toppings, or pour the light dashi broth over the rice, reminiscent of an 'ocha-zuke' style. However, it's worth noting that the dashi broth at Uya leans towards the sweeter side compared to other unagi restaurants.

Sea Urchin and Wagyu Rice Bowl 4.2/5

For a luxurious and indulgent experience, try the Sea Urchin and Wagyu Rice Bowl ($55). This delectable dish combines thinly-sliced succulent rare beef, Hokkaido sea urchin, and briny ikura with freshly-grated wasabi, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Parfait 4/5

The Parfait ($12) is beautifully adorned with layers of sweetened azuki beans, creamy vanilla and matcha ice cream, chewy mochi balls, and velvety whipped cream. Each component contributes to a symphony of flavors and textures, creating a harmonious blend that will leave you wanting more.

With its outlet-exclusive dishes and commitment to serving quality unagi creations, Uya at Oasia Hotel Novena is a must-visit for unagi enthusiasts and Japanese cuisine lovers alike. Prepare to embark on a delightful culinary journey filled with the finest unagi delicacies that will leave you craving for more.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


UYA
Oasia Hotel Novena, Singapore by Far East Hospitality
8 Sinaran Drive
#01-05
Singapore 307470
Tel: +65 97880071
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Nearest MRT: Novena (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 6pm - 930pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Novena MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right and walkdown Sinaran Drive. Walk towards Novena Specialist Centre. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Porta @ Park Hotel Clarke Quay - Plant-based Green Monday Menu

Porta at Park Hotel Clarke Quay goes green with a plant-based Green Monday menu in partnership with Green Monday, as part of its initiatives to support and raise awareness on sustainable future through inspiring diners on the benefits of green diets. A social enterprise group established in Hong Kong in 2012, Green Monday promotes and enables green, healthy and sustainable living to raise awareness and inspire public on the benefits of green diets, nurturing the love towards our planet, and the pursuit of harmony in life. On the Green Monday menu are 10 dishes ranging from vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free, including plant-based meat and dairy alternatives, featuring plant-based produce from Beyond Meat, Heura, as well as plant-based cheese and dairy from Daiya Foods.

Burratina 4/5

Going green also means allowing simple flavours to shine, and their subtleties always leave you wanting for more. Burratina ($22) is one such dishes, where the delicate, pillowy burrata is enlivened with savoury, peppery and sharp basil pesto shio kombu, balanced with sweet Roma tomatoes.

Beyond Burger 3/5

Beyond Burger ($29) features both the plant-based alternatives Beyond patty and Daiya cheese, bind together with housemade ketchup and mayonnaise, caramelised onions in a brioche bun. The smokey, rich ketchup and that savoury-sweet caramelised onions are to die for. However, I personally find a messy burger more fulfilling, and Beyond Burger falls short of that factor.

Orecchiette Pasta 3.8/5

Orecchiette Pasta ($24), on the other hand, is an ultimate comforting dish that will win you over by its warm and creamy aroma effusing from the housemade cream sauce. The sauce is made using cream, milk, garlic, onion, bay leaf, infused with the earthiness of wild mushrooms. Sliced and tossed in the Beyond sausage, passed off easily as the real thing with their garlicky flavour and meaty texture.

Parma Ham 3/5

Porta's all-day dining menu sees new creations as well, starting with Parma Ham ($16). Dressed with tangy balsamic vinegar and creamy Thai lime aioli, both elements cut the richness of the meat, and the latter also helped to harmonise the contrasting flavours of the savoury meat and the sweet compressed watermelon cubes.

Venus Clams Capellini 3.5/5

For the main course, a crowd-pleaser will be the Venus Clams Capellini ($24). It showcases Indonesian clams prepared in clam stock with shio kombu, spiked with heat from chilli padi and an accentuated umaminess from a handful crisp sakura ebi.

Black Cod 4/5

Adopting an earthy green-brown palette, I love the execution of the Black Cod ($29). An emerald green spinach dashi purée backdropped its ivory white self, which is further contrasted with a blanket of crushed pistachio and puffed wild rice that textured its buttery flesh.

Gourmet Pork Sausage Roll 2.8/5

Gourmet Pork Sausage Roll ($21) is the latest brunch item, featuring a gourmet pork sausage roll with jalapeno salsa. The sausage was juicy, but the salsa lacked both the fiery and kick. Similarly to Beyond Burger, it was a brunch item that left me feeling a little empty.

Kopi "O" 4/5

Coffee lovers will appreciate the bitter-sweetness in the new dessert creation - Kopi "O" ($12), a 'parfait' in a traditional coffee cup made with housemade dark chocolate coffee sponge, coffee crumbles, coffee jelly, milk sauce, and espresso ice cream, completed with butter sugar toast on the side.

Meyer Lemon Trifle 4/5

If you are a fan of lemon tart, this Meyer Lemon Trifle will be right up on your alley with a tangy concoction of Victorian sponge and housemade lemon curd. I actually like it even better with the thyme-infused whipped cream, which is lighter and less cloying than meringue.

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.


Porta Fine Food & Import Company
Park Hotel Clarke Quay
1 Unity Street
Singapore 237983
Tel: +65 65938888
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Nearest MRT: Clarke Quay (NE Line), Fort Canning (DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight At Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk to junction of River Valley Road and Clemenceau Ave. Cross the road and turn left onto Clemenceau Ave. Walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Clarke Quay MRT station. Take Exit E. Walk to bus stop at Clark Quay Station (Stop ID 04222). Take bus number 54. Alight 3 stops later. Walk to the end UE Square Shopping Mall. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]