Cafe Oriental @ Amara Singapore - August Local Legends Series: KEK Seafood

In celebration of SG60, Amara Singapore has partnered with two iconic local legends to present a unique dining experience at Cafe Oriental, blending nostalgic flavours with creative modern interpretations.

During my visit in May, I had the opportunity to experience the collaboration with the century-old Chin Mee Chin Confectionery, featuring signature savoury dishes like Curry Chicken, Char Kway Teow, and Mee Siam, alongside sweet treats including Kaya Toast, Chocolate Cupcake, and an exclusive Durian Horn Pastry.

From August 5 to 31, the spotlight shifts to renowned zi char brand KEK Seafood, known for its wok hei-rich classics and inventive creations. Diners can savour the collaboration during lunch (12pm to 2.30pm) and dinner (6pm to 9pm) at Cafe Oriental.

Spicy Crab Meat Pasta 3/5

The Spicy Crab Meat Pasta offered a sweeter, milder take than what we'd personally prefer. However, it may serve newcomers to the dish well, although our pasta was slightly overcooked.

Prawn Paste Chicken Burger 3.8/5

The local favourite 'Har Cheong Gai' can be found in the Prawn Paste Chicken Burger, served with a side of crunchy sweet potato fries. The chicken patty was thick and juicy, but it was a touch dry overall.

Lala Pot 4/5

The Lala Pot swaps the usual clear broth for a hearty collagen base, served with thick vermicelli and a splash of brandy on the side. Clams were fresh and sweet.

Butter Cereal Fish & Egg Fried Rice 3.5/5

The cereal fish from the Butter Cereal Fish & Egg Fried Rice was a standout, being both crispy and tender, with a distinct butter aroma. The egg fried rice, however, was dry and fell short of expectations.

Black Pepper Angus Beef

While we don’t take beef, we heard fellow dining companions mention that the Black Pepper Angus Beef was peppery and tender.

Marmite Pork Chop 4/5

The Marmite Pork Chop featured thick pork cuts coated in a well-balanced marmite glaze, sweet and savoury.

Bak Kut Teh 3.8/5

Surprisingly enjoyable, the collaboration’s Bak Kut Teh had a peppery broth that was aromatic without being overpowering, paired with tender ribs.

Spiced Chilli Prawns with Mantou 3.8/5

The sweet chilli sauce in the Spiced Chilli Prawns with Mantou was mild enough for spice-averse diners. Served with fried mantou for dipping.

KEK Signature Moonlight Horfun 4/5

One of our KEK Seafood's must-order items is definitely the KEK Signature Moonlight Horfun. Wok-hei flavour remains distinct here, and the horfun is satisfying.

Chocolate Cupcake, Durian Horn Pastry

We got to sample desserts from Chin Mee Chin, their Chocolate Cupcake and Durian Horn Pastry. These old-school-style bakes will satisfy those with a sweet tooth.

Reservations for KEK Seafood at Amara Singapore can be made through https://singapore.amarahotels.com/offers/local-legends-cafe-oriental-x-keng-eng-kee-seafood.

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.


Cafe Oriental
Amara Singapore
165 Tanjong Pagar Road
Singapore 088539
Tek: +65 68792626
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat: 11am - 830pm
Sun: 11am - 6pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn left and walk down Peck Seah Street towards Gopeng Street. Turn right onto Gopeng Street and walk down Gopeng Street. Turn left onto Tras Street and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano @ Shangri-La Singapore - Unveils a Revamped Menu Celebrating Southern Italian Flavours

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano at Shangri-La Singapore has introduced a newly refreshed à la carte menu featuring over 20 new dishes inspired by the culinary traditions of Puglia, the Southern Italian hometown of Chef de Cuisine Simone Loisi. The updated offerings blend timeless Italian classics with modern techniques, providing both loyal patrons and newcomers with a vibrant take on Italian dining.

Focaccia 4.2/5

We began our dinner with a warmly baked Focaccia, golden and crisp on the outside, yet moist and fluffy on the inside, with a gentle chew. The addition of olives and herbs elevated its aroma and flavour, offering a comforting and aromatic start to the meal.

Frittura Di Pesce 4.5/5

From the antipasti selection, the Frittura Di Pesce was a standout, an assortment of lightly battered and perfectly fried seafood, including baby cuttlefish, octopus, and prawns. The thin, crispy coating provided just the right crunch, while a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of aioli added brightness and creaminess that tied the dish together beautifully.

Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole 4/5

For pasta, we opted for the Orecchiette Al Ragu Di Braciole. The small, ear-shaped pasta was cooked al dente, offering a satisfying bite. Its concave shape was ideal for holding the rich tomato-based sauce, which was deeply flavoured from slow-cooked pork, pecorino cheese, and fresh parsley. Each mouthful was a comforting balance of savoury and herbaceous notes.

Rustica 4/5

From the pizza selection, we chose the Rustica. Topped with mozzarella, goat cheese, thyme, honey, walnut crumble, and dried figs, it was an impressive harmony of flavours. The savouriness of the cheese paired delightfully with the sweetness of the honey and figs, while the walnut crumble added texture and earthiness. It is a well-executed, sweet and savoury finish.

Tiramisu Classico 4/5

To end the meal, we indulged in a trio of desserts: Tiramisu Classico, Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa, and Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio.

The Tiramisu Classico was my personal favourite, featuring the classic elements of savoiardi ladyfingers, mascarpone, coffee, and cocoa powder, all perfectly balanced and executed with finesse.

Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa 3.8/5

The Cannoli Siciliano Fatto In Casa featured a crispy homemade shell piped with sweetened ricotta, elevated by hints of orange zest, bitter chocolate chips, and crushed pistachios. It was rich, textured, and satisfying. The Torta Al Formaggio E Pistacchio was enjoyable, with a creamy texture and nutty undertones. However, the pistachio flavour could have been more pronounced to leave a stronger impression.

Totra Al Formaggio E Pistacchio 3/5

Waterfall Ristorante Italiano's refreshed menu is a warm tribute to Chef Simone Loisi's Southern Italian roots. With elevated classics, quality ingredients, and thoughtful execution of flavours, the restaurant continues to deliver an authentic yet refined Italian dining experience in an elegant resort setting.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Waterfall Ristorante Italiano
Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore
22 Orange Grove Road
Level One, Garden Wing
Singapore 258350
Tel: +65 62134398
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 230pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 4. 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]

Vincenzo Capuano @ Robertson Quay - World Champion of Contemporay Pizza, Opens First Asia Outpost in Singapore

With over 30 outlets across the globe and a prestigious #12 ranking on the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains 2025, Vincenzo Capuano brings his award-winning pizzas to Asia for the very first time, right here in Singapore. Best known for clinching the title of World Champion of Contemporary Pizza in 2022, Chef Vincenzo’s philosophy lies in tradition, craftsmanship, and a dough that defies gravity.

At the heart of his pizza is a long-leavened, highly hydrated dough made with “Nuvola Super” flour, specially developed in collaboration with a flour mill. The result? A feather-light, airy crust that almost melts in your mouth. In a nod to Neapolitan dining culture, diners are encouraged to use the pair of golden scissors at each table to slice through the pillowy pizza crust themselves, an interactive touch that highlights the dough’s soft structure and signature puffed edge.

Insalata Al Salmone 3.5/5

We kicked off the meal with the Insalata Al Salmone ($26), a hearty salad that’s pleasingly more protein-forward than leafy. Smoked salmon mingles with rucola, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers, all dressed in a roasted truffle sesame vinaigrette. It's tangy and refreshing, though more of a light prelude than a standout.

Burrata Classica 4/5

Next, the Burrata Classica ($26) shined with its creamy centre and fresh pairing of rucola, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, and balsamic. Enhanced with olive oil caviar for a modern touch, this was simple yet elegantly executed, a reliable classic done right.

Guanciale Di Manzo 4.2/5

Don't skip the pasta here. The Guanciale Di Manzo ($30) features housemade fusilli bathed in a deeply savoury, 12-hour slow-cooked wagyu beef cheek ragù. Cooked al dente, the pasta clung perfectly to the robust sauce, giving each bite a rich, meaty depth.

Carbonara 4.8/5

A standout dish of the night, the Carbonara ($28) is a purist's dream, comprising housemade fettuccine tossed with 12-hour slow-cooked Iberico pork jowl, egg yolk, and Parmigiano. No cream, no shortcuts, just authenticity and balance. Easily one of the best carbonaras in town.

Provola E Pepe 4.2/5

As the pizza that won the 19th Pizza World Championship, the Provola E Pepe ($28) did not disappoint. Smoky provola cheese sits atop hand-crushed tomatoes, mixed pepper, roasted cherry tomatoes, EVOO, and basil. Bold and balanced, it's a smoky, savoury medley with a lightly tangy kick.

Tetti Illuminati 4.5/5

My personal favourite of the trio, the Tetti Illuminati ($28), is a textural and flavour bomb comprising mortadella IGP, fior di latte, crushed pistachios, pistachio cream, pecorino Romano flakes, and basil. It is a decadent yet harmonious combination, elevated by the pistachio's nuttiness.

Don Egidio 4/5

The Don Egidio ($28) stood out with its unique use of courgette cream as the base. Topped with zucchini chips, meatballs (a family recipe from Nonno Enzo), burrata heart, EVOO, and basil, this pizza offered contrasting textures, especially with the extra crunch from the zucchini chips.

Creme Brulee 3/5

The Crème Brûlée ($14) ended things on a quieter note. While the custard was smooth and creamy, the caramelised rapadura layer didn't quite offer the crackly finish one might expect. It's a serviceable dessert but not the highlight.

Tiramisu All'Amaretto 4/5

We much preferred the Tiramisù All'Amaretto ($17). Layered with mascarpone Lombardo, savoiardi biscuits, pistachios, and a generous splash of amaretto, it was light, creamy, and nuanced. It was a delightful finish to the meal.

Vincenzo Capuano's Singapore outpost lives up to its celebrated name, especially in the realm of authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta that speak of slow-cooked care. With dough that's light as air and sauces that burst with flavour, it's a worthy pilgrimage for pizza purists and carb lovers alike. Come for the world-class pizza — stay for the carbonara.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Vincenzo Capuano
The Pier @ Robertson
80 Mohamed Sultan Road
Singapore 239013
Tel: +65 6485 9153
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Nearest MRT: Fort Canning (DT Line)

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

Direction:
1) Alight at Fort Canning MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to traffic junction of Clemenceau Ave and River Valley. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Clemenceau Ave. Turn right onto Unity Street. Then left onto Merbau Road. Walk straight towards the river. Turn right at the river. Walk to destination. Journey time about 8 minutes. [Map]

Swensen’s Unlimited @ Geneo - Halal-certified Buffet Offering Peranakan, Seafood, Hand-stretched Pizzas and Desserts

Swensen's popular buffet concept, Swensen's Unlimited, has launched its third outlet at the newly opened Geneo Mall in Singapore Science Park, following earlier openings at VivoCity and Changi Airport Terminal 2.

What sets this new branch apart is its spacious 200-seat layout, designed to host special events such as weddings or corporate gatherings. The space features a customisable LED backdrop and a private suite with an attached bathroom - ideal as a bridal room or multi-purpose event space.

Pricing starts at $35++ for weekday lunch and $38++ for weekday dinner (Monday to Thursday). On Fridays, weekends, public holidays, and special occasions (such as Mother's Day), the price is $50++ for lunch and $60++ for dinner. Lunch runs from 11am to 5pm, and dinner from 5pm to 10pm, with a 90-minute dining limit. Menus vary slightly depending on the day.

Swensen’s Unlimited Buffet 3.8/5

Begin at the Seafood on Ice section with free-flow tiger prawns, mussels, clams, and flower crabs. While reasonably fresh, it was a pity that the seafood lacked flavour.

Cold Cuts & Appetisers

Next to the Seafood on Ice are several cold cuts & appetisers, including salads and cheeses.

Hot Food

The Hot Food lineup consists of Indian, Asian, Western and Peranakan dishes, as well as soups such as Cream of Mushroom.

Mala Stir-Fry Pot

Mala Firecracker Chicken

The Hot Food spotlight shines on three outlet-exclusive dishes: Ayam Masak Merah, Mala Firecracker Chicken, and Mala Stir-Fry Pot, which packs a strong kick of spice.

Live Carving Station

There are also a couple of live food stations. First, the Live Carving Station featured fresh roast meats, including Roast Striploin and Roast Chicken.

Pizza Station: Trio Cheese Hand-stretched Pizza

Pasta Station Aglio Olio Spaghetti

Second, the Pizza and Pasta Stations offered Hand-stretched Pizzas and freshly prepared pasta with various sauces and pasta options.

Baked Rice and Noodles Station: Laksa

Lastly, the Baked Rice and Noodles Station offered Swensen's classic baked rice flavours (Curry Chicken, Chicken, and Fish) and two noodle options: Beef Noodles and Laksa.

Ice Cream and Gelato

Moving to the last and most popular sweets section, diners will be welcomed with Swensen's massive range of Ice Cream and Gelato on rotation from its book of 48 flavours. They are made up of a mix of classics and newer creations. Some flavours that caught our eye include Zero Sugar Sticky Chewy Chocolate, Berry Hibiscus, Smoked Oak Tiramisu, and Chrysanthemum with Choco Fudge.

Ice Cream and Gelato

The assortment of condiments allows you to customise your sundaes - do make sure to try their outlet-exclusive Pistachio Kunafa Sauce!

Croissants and Waffles

Chocolate Fountain

Assorted Kueh

Continuing with the options for sweets, diners can also indulge in a chocolate fountain, croissants, waffles, assorted kuehs, fruits, and more.

Please ensure you make a reservation before heading down, especially for meals on weekends and special occasions.

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.


Swensen’s Unlimited
Geneo
#01-06
1 Science Park Drive
Singapore 118221
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Nearest MRT: Kent Ridge (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily 11am - 10pm

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